In light of Connecticut's elementary school shooting, the debate about stricter gun laws is starting to get heated. But instead of tackling whether or not we should alter our second amendment rights. 5 News met one mother who says stronger controls on background checks is the key.

5 News spoke with one mother whose son is schizophrenic and bi-polar. When he was diagnosed, she was told his disorders would be on record, and he would never be able to purchase a firearm. However, he ended up buying one pretty easily.

After Cheryl Baker found out her son did have a gun, she was able to take it away from him and explain why he should not have one. She said thankfully they have a close relationship, and she always keeps a watchful eye on what he's doing, otherwise something bad could've happened.

 

But Baker said she was upset that a better background check wasn't done to keep her son from buying that gun. She felt disappointed in the system and said tougher laws on that issue could help stop another mass shooting.

Right now, possession of a firearm by the mentally ill is regulated by both state and federal laws. Federal law states that under 18 U.S.C. § 922(d), it is unlawful for any person to sell or otherwise dispose of any firearm or ammunition to any person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person “has been adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to any mental institution.”

 

Some police officers said for parents who have children, with or without a mental illness, it's important especially for the younger ones to keep guns and ammunition somewhere far out of their reach. Once they begin to get older, parents should start teaching your kids to respect guns, and if they ever see one, not to touch it and go get an adult instead.

Police also said you can look into buying gun locks and trigger guards at any local sporting goods store.