This article is more than 8 years old

This article is more than 8 years old

A National Rifle Association executive has accused the media of manufacturing controversy over the Trayvon Martin killing in Florida.

Speaking at the gun owners' group's annual meeting, Wayne LaPierre, the NRA's executive vice-president, said media had ignored other violent crimes in favour of the case, listing other recent killings in cities across the country.

"By the time I finish this speech, two Americans will be slain, six women will be raped, 27 of us will be robbed, and 50 more will be beaten. That's the harsh reality we face, all of us, every single day. But the media, they don't care. Everyday victims aren't celebrities. They don't draw ratings, don't draw sponsors," he said.

Addressing the media, he added: "You manufacture controversy for ratings. You don't care about the truth, and the truth is the national news media in this country is a national disgrace, and you all know it." He accused reporters of irresponsibility, duplicity and dangerous dishonesty.

"In the aftermath of one of Florida's many daily tragedies, my phone has been ringing off the hook," LaPierre said.

"The National Rifle Association will not comment on any story without a full understanding … of all the facts."

The Trayvon Martin case, in which the teenager was shot by the neighbourhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, has focused attention on 'stand your ground' laws which allow people to use deadly force in self-defence. Zimmerman was initially not arrested, but has now been charged with second-degree murder. The NRA has been a strong supporter of 'stand your ground' laws, which are in effect in 30 states including Florida.

At the NRA annual meeting, the organisation celebrated its success in passing 'stand your ground' laws, showing a video of a young mother in Oklahoma, Sarah McKinley, who shot dead a knife-wielding home invader on New Year's Eve.

Authorities decided not to charge her, citing the state's law allowing the use of force in self-defence.

"We always as members of the NRA stand our ground," LaPierre said.