There's been quite a buzz in Des Moines lately about James Spiers, a local pizza delivery man who was the victim of an attempted robbery a couple of weeks ago while he attempted to deliver a pizza. What makes this story different from your average everyday crime report is that, unbeknownst to the would-be robber holding the gun to the poor pizza man's head, James was packing heat of his own.He shot the robber, sending him to the hospital with multiple gunshot wounds, and instantly became a local celebrity. The twist? Pizza Hut has a strict policy against its drivers carrying weapons. They are bound by policy to suspend or fire James...but they are stuck in a bit of a PR pickle. Their policy is clear, but the community loves James and his vigilante ways.
This story has provided me with much entertainment for the following reasons:
- The man's name is basically Jamie Spears. Will someone PLEASE acknowledge this?
- Our local paper's web site allows people to comment on stories. I'm sure you've guessed that this encourages thoughtful, well-written prose. Actually, it's exploded into a giant ideological fight about gun rights. Read the comments below the story if you'd like a taste.
- A new website has popped up, to show support for James. The site's creator, who is remaining anonymous, starts his explanation regarding why he created the site with some class: "I believe in the right of law-abiding American citizens to bear arms. James was properly licensed to carry a weapon. He was trying to make a living and like anybody else, he has a right to be free from threats." The gravitas quickly drops off, however, as he adds: "Besides, I like pizza and if drivers quit delivering pizza because of armed thugs, we are going to have to go get the stuff and I don't want to do that."
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