CPD advisory on ‘Orbeez guns’

In the interests of public safety, the Canton Police Department issued an advisory earlier this week regarding the possession and use of gel ball blasters.

According to the CPD, there has been a rise in incidents, not only in Canton but in communities across the country, involving juveniles possessing/utilizing the popular toy weapons, also known “Orbeez guns.” Further investigation by Canton school resource officers has also uncovered several social media “challenges” associated with this item.

“Some youths on social media have taken the competition a step further and started freezing the gel balls, thus making them very dangerous projectiles,” notes the CPD advisory.

“The most important information you need to know about this item is that it can be easily mistaken for an actual firearm,” the advisory continues. “Obviously, in the contemporary times we live in, this dangerous fact could cause an immense amount of confusion and panic throughout our town.”

The CPD further warned that possession of these types of toy guns is strictly prohibited on all town of Canton properties and businesses — including all town fields, library and school property, and on all school buses.

“Discharge of these ‘Orbeez guns’ is not only strongly discouraged, but could potentially lead to criminal charges,” the advisory continues. “We are taking this issue extremely seriously. It is our sincere hope that by addressing this matter with your children and continuing to echo the importance of making good choices, we can bring this concern to an end without any further incidents.”

Underscoring its commitment to the #1440 initiative, the CPD urged parents and guardians to utilize some of the 1,440 minutes each of them has in a day for this important discussion.

“Talk with your children about personal responsibility, consequences and the real-life potential for harm that could arise from this item,” police advised. “Please talk with them about the impact this can have on themselves and others.”

“The safety of your children in and out of school and around town is a primary passion for the women and men within the Canton Police Department,” the advisory concludes. “Please help us to protect them in any way we can.”

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=107411

Posted by Canton Citizen on Apr 7 2023. Filed under Featured Content. Both comments and pings are currently closed.