Pizzeria allows delivery drivers to carry firearms because gun crime is so bad
KEY POINTS
- Spinelli's Pizza in Kentucky says the drivers must have a valid licence to carry guns.
- One of their employees was stabbed while making a delivery last year.
A pizzeria in the US has announced it will allow its drivers to carry weapons while they make deliveries.
Spinelli's, located in Louisvile, Kentucky, said their policy was in response to a growing threat of violence against drivers.
The new rule is reserved for employees who have an official licence to carry firearms. Drivers will be allowed to carry it unconcealed on their hip or it can be left in their vehicle, according to manager Aaron Schonbachler.
Recent events have left the city's delivery drivers feeling vulnerable to assaults. On Monday (13 November), a Papa John's employee was shot in the Jeffersonville neighbourhood of the city. A Spinelli's employee was stabbed during a carjacking last year.
The situation has become so bad Spinelli's now operates a 'no-cash' policy past 10pm at night in the hope its drivers become less of a target.
Speaking with WHAS11, Spinelli's employee Josh Scouten said the new policy made him feel safer during working hours, which often involves working late at night.
"If somebody's out there to rob somebody, they're going to rob somebody. They need the money, they're going to do it for a reason, I just don't want it to be me."
The local TV station followed the driver during one of his shifts. His gun was clearly seen holstered on his right hip. Scouten says the weapon makes him feel safer and he claims he will only use it as a last resort.
"It's not going to protect everybody out there, but they may just rob the next guy instead of me," Scouten explained.
"You gotta be smart. It's not that dangerous of a job, stuff happens, but you're more likely to get in a car wreck than you are to get robbed."
Earlier this month, a 32-year-old delivery driver in London was left fighting for his life after acid was thrown in his face. Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with the assault.
UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd said she would put forward legislation which would see restrictions placed on the sale of corrosive substances .
"Acid attacks are absolutely revolting," she said. "You have all seen the pictures of victims that never fully recover. Endless surgeries. Lives ruined. So today, I am also announcing a new offence to prevent the sale of acids to under-18s."
