The following is a public safety announcement from the Portage Police Department:
“Over the weekend our officers responded to a local restaurant at approximately 9:45pm in reference to a report of a disturbance involving multiple subjects in the parking lot. The initial caller reported that two SUV’s had blocked in a sedan, preventing it from leaving. This caller next reported that one person was being chased through the lot by a group of armed subjects brandishing firearms.
This initial report resulted in a significant police response to the area. Once officers arrived on scene, the subjects involved were thankfully compliant and followed the officers’ commands. One subject was found to have a “firearm” tucked in his waistband and another “firearm” was observed inside one of the SUV’s. Upon closer inspection it was discovered that the “firearms” were in fact toys, although that was not immediately evident from a distance in the low light conditions to the 911 caller.
It was determined that the local teens involved were playing the “Assassin” game. Assassin is an organized game with very specific rules that must be followed in order to participate, which has been made popular over the years through various television shows and social media platforms. Players work in teams to “eliminate” other players by shooting them with Orbi, Nerf, or water guns. This game has become a nationwide trend with high school seniors as they approach graduation.
What does this mean? For the next few weeks, you might see these groups of teens running around with their toy guns trying to eliminate their designated target (who should be a willing participant). Unfortunately, some of the players have taken the game too far and other communities have reported incidents of trespassing, residential entry, and reckless driving associated with this game.
Potential Risks:
1. Safety Concerns:
• Students may hide, chase, or confront others in inappropriate or dangerous locations, such as public streets or private properties.
• Misidentification of toys as real weapons by bystanders or law enforcement can lead to tragic consequences.
2. Legal Implications:
• Entering private property without consent or creating public disturbances can result in legal consequences.
While we love to see your children having fun, we want everyone to be safe. The Portage Police Department does not support or condone the dangerous behaviors that are sometimes associated with this game. If your child chooses to participate, we encourage them to utilize toy guns that are immediately identifiable as such. They should not have the same size and shape as actual firearms and should be brightly colored to avoid confusion.
What Parents Can Do:
1. Start a Conversation:
• Talk to your teen about the game and the risks involved. Ask if they are participating or feel pressured to join.
2. Set Boundaries:
• Make clear rules about what is and isn’t acceptable behavior if they decide to participate. Discourage any behavior that involves trespassing, unsafe driving, or causing public disturbances.
3. Encourage Safety Measures:
• If your teen insists on participating, encourage them to establish ground rules with their peers and avoid dangerous scenarios.
Remember, fun traditions should never come at the cost of safety. Let’s work together to keep our teens safe, responsible, and making good decisions.”