Milwaukee Sheriff releases PSA: "You have a duty to protect yourself."

Image via Gary Porter/AP/Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke has released a radio PSA in Wisconsin telling citizens to arm themselves in case the police do not arrive on time.

In the PSA, Clarke is quoted as saying:

"I'm Sheriff David Clarke, and I want to talk to you about something personal...your safety. It's no longer a spectator sport; I need you in the game, but are you ready? With officers laid-off and furloughed, simply calling 9-1-1 and waiting is no longer your best option. You can beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed, or you can fight back; but are you prepared? Consider taking a certified safety course in handling a firearm so you can defend yourself until we get there. You have a duty to protect yourself and your family. We're partners now. Can I count on you?"

This announcement has sparked quite a controversy, while tensions are already very high given recent events. Some critics on the anti-gun side claim that it is "irresponsible" and that Clarke is merely acting as a mouthpiece for the gun lobby. However, in many cases, what Clarke says in the PSA is a fact: When seconds count, the police are only minutes away.