Statistics show that illegal handgun is a major problem, but how are these people with criminal background that are unable to purchase guns getting hold of it. According to the 1997 survey of state prison inmates, 80% said that they got it from family, friends, streets, or an illegal source. This illustrates that criminals are able to get guns from almost every available source (even though most states have very strict laws against felons from buying and carrying handguns) because there are hardly any laws that prevent and forbid gun owners and sellers from giving or selling their handgun to people with criminal record. Although, each states have its own gun laws, the predominant theme is that there is very little regulation and limitation to buying and owning handguns other than a permit to carry one. That is why Maurice Clemmons who had a extensive criminal records was able to get two handguns that were used in the shooting and killing of four Lakewood police officers. Felons like Clemmons are able to purchase pistols and revolvers from a variety of sources like private gun show, "straw purchase", family, friends or steal one without alerting or warning any authorities or the public. This is the main reason why gun control activist and politicians like many Democrats and even some Republicans like Senator McCain support some form of a national gun registration system.