Weapons
It's likely that you've heard about some high profile crimes involving young people and offensive weapons in the news recently. These have involved youths carrying weapons such as knives and guns with deadly consequences.
The risks of carrying weapons
Carrying weapons like knives and guns around with you is definitely not a good idea.
- Guns and knives are not cool.
Weapons are not status symbols or fashion accessories to be carried around. They can cause serious harm to yourself and others and can get you into serious trouble. - Carrying weapons does not command respect.
Weapons create an atmosphere of fear and distrust. - The weapon could be turned against you.
Your own weapon might be turned back and used against you during a confrontation. - It is illegal to carry weapons.
It is an offence to carry knives and guns around, and if you're caught the consequences can include a prison sentence and a criminal record which affects you for the rest of your life (preventing you from getting a job, getting into university and even travelling abroad to some countries). - Carrying a weapon for "self-defence" is not an excuse.
By carrying a weapon, you may signal to others that you are a threat and increasing the likelihood of a dangerous confrontation. Other people who see you with a weapon will assume you are prepared to use it. It is still illegal to carry a weapon even if you claim it's for defensive purposes only.
Fake weapons
You might think fake weapons are less of a big deal than real ones. But actually, carrying an imitation weapon has serious consequences. Having an imitation firearm in a public place is an offence and can get you six months in prison if convicted.
Did you know?
The Firearms Act 1968 states "An imitation firearm is anything which has the appearance of being a firearm, regardless of whether or not it is capable of discharging a shot, bullet or other missile."
BB Guns
A BB gun (ball bearing gun) counts as an imitation firearm. Although they are usually sold as toys, they can easily be used in crime. While they are less powerful than 'real' guns they are still firing out missiles that can and do hurt people, damage property and cause upset.
BB guns may be advertised as "totally harmless providing safety rules are followed". The problem is that these guns can get into the hands of young people who are not keeping to the safety rules.
If something gets broken or damaged by a pellet from a BB gun, intentionally or recklessly, its still Criminal Damage!
If someone is hurt by a pellet hitting them, it is an assault. Depending on the injury it will be dealt with as Common Assault, Actual Bodily Harm or in the case of a 15 year old girl shot in the eye, Grievous Bodily Harm. It's a serious offence!
Did you know?
The police response to any call where a gun is involved or alleged is to send armed officers to deal with it. They carry real guns with real bullets.
Don't live with the fear of weapons
If you know someone carries a gun or knife around, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. It's up to all of us to keep ourselves safe and our community a safe place to live.
If you have a weapon that you would like to surrender, then you can call your Safer Neighbourhoods Team who will give you advice and can dispose of it for you. It's important to dispose of a weapon the right way (i.e. not throwing it in the bin!) as someone might be injured otherwise.
Related External Links:
- It's Not a Game
Carrying a knife is not a game. The consequences can be deadly. - Stop The Guns
Find out about Operation Trident and efforts to stop gun crime.