Chester Police Consider Ordinance on Toy Guns in Public Spaces

Chester police are evaluating a potential ordinance to regulate the use of toy guns, such as Nerf blasters, in public areas following numerous complaints. These complaints often involve teenagers using the toys while wearing ski masks.

Police officials have expressed concern that these items, despite being marketed as toys, can lead to potentially hazardous situations. Their concern is amplified when the toys are concealed in backpacks or used during group activities that involve chasing, as they can be mistaken for actual firearms.

Authorities are currently urging parents to think carefully before purchasing toy guns for their children and to discuss the potential dangers of using them in public settings.

City officials are also encouraging community members to contact 911 if they observe any suspicious or concerning behavior involving these toy weapons, which police note are frequently mistaken for real guns.

The police department has emphasized that their main priority is ensuring the safety of young people while preventing misunderstandings that could result in tragic consequences.

The timeline for when or if this potential ordinance will be presented to the Chester City Council remains unclear.