Yes, I think the father did the right thing and if more children knew their parents would shop them, maybe this would bring crime down.
What chance do kids have if parents condone this behaviour.

I like Alans idea but dont' agree with his view on the police. You have to remeber that they just enforce the law and that the law in this country no longer has anything to do with justice or the rights of the common folk. Thats the fault of the politicians not the police.

Having disposed of the weapon in a manner that meant it could no longer be used by anybody my son would have been punished at home for his stupidity. If I doubted his acceptance of the situation the ultimate sanction would be that he get out of the family home. He would not need to be told twice.

This solution would not be without risk because the gun might have already been used and if found evidence linking it to me could come to light. Try explaining that to plod three years down the line. You have to admit that the boys father probably got it right but I am not sure that I would have done the same. It's easy to talk.

Not a chance! I would not tell the Police the time of day, they are arrogant,incompetent and not to be trusted. I would have disposed of the gun myself in a river or lake.

some of these comments are so judgemental, and that is the problem, we don't know the circumstances, apparently he was scared of someone, i agree with what the dad did, but i'm sure he feels let down as he is obviously giving the right messages to his son, yet it seems the circumstances weren't taken into account. i wish ythat people would remeber that these teens are our next generation, they need our help and support not the constant barrage of 'hoodies means danger' this just is not true, and we need to find a way to make teens proud to be who they are, the media needs to change what they do for the sake of our young people.

Yes I would report my child to the police, gun crime is horrific now. I am bringing my kids up to respect themselves and others and to believe that all actions have consequences no matter how horrible the consequences are! I only hope that the situation never arises however if it does then I can only hope that my kids would respect and understand why I would tell the police!