hmmm some bad info...
it's hard to pack a DE...most that talk about them either would never carry or simply have one in a drawer they take out to impress others
. It's a big gun, but not the gun I'd want to defend myself...I couldn't keep it concealed well (whether legal or not guns make others uncomfortable) and it doesn't give you very many rounds at only 7. The .357 would be a better choice I think it's closer to 10 rounds. There is a .44 version but I think it also packs only 7 rounds too.
You never, ever want to shoot someone walking or running away, in every state you will be found gulty of murder and/or attempted murder. It's no longer a threat if the threatening person is leaving. You also do not want to pull out your weapon and direct it at anyone as a threat...it's totally you in the wrong on any offensive move. Also carrying an empty pistol can get you in more trouble than if it was loaded, since an empty gun is considered to be carried for the sole purpose of threatening.
In Texas a man was recently convicted in a similar situation. In TX, you can defend your property, if he could have shot the thief in the act it would have been no problem, but the Texan confronted him and the thief took off and he pursued and then shot him.
If someone is coming up to you and you are packing and you feel threatened give a quick warning and prepare to open fire definitely...but don't pull on someone just coming up to you and don't tell someone you will shoot them if they approach.