GREEN BAY — The Green Bay Police Department says they have responded to an increase in calls involving gel or splatter guns that look like real weapons.
Since June 5, Green Bay Police have investigated 18 incidents involving air guns that fire small gel balls, including a robbery Wednesday at Bay Beach Amusement Park.
These guns are widely available, police say, and the pellets can cause injuries particularly if they strike the eyes or other sensitive areas.
In an incident on June 29, a group of juveniles used a gel pellet gun to commit a robbery at Bay Beach Park. Five juveniles were charged with crimes including Robbery, Intimidation, and Disorderly Conduct in that incident.
That same day, officers were investigating a similar incident when they encountered a juvenile carrying two of the guns in downtown Green Bay.
When officers attempted to confiscate the guns, a large disturbance ensued, with a solo officer at one point being confronted by several juveniles. Six arrests were made. Charges included Disorderly Conduct, Obstructing or Resisting an Officer, and Battery or Threat to an Officer.
In some instances, people have been shot at random with these pellet guns.
“These incidents are concerning for a number of reasons, not least the risk that someone will be seriously hurt,” said Green Bay Police Chief Chris Davis. “We take this very seriously, and anyone who attacks community members with gel pellet guns can expect to be arrested and held accountable.”
Some gel pellet guns are designed to look like real guns, and officers have encountered some that were painted in such a way that they resembled actual firearms.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their kids about the dangers of engaging in this behavior. In an effort to address this and other public safety issues in parks and downtown Green Bay, GBPD will be deploying directed patrols in public spaces for the remainder of the summer.
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