Camcorder Gun

During a consent search of the vehicle, Officers located a full size “Sharp” personal video recorder on the right rear passenger seat.

Upon closer examination of the video camera, officers were able to remove a fake videocassette, which had been placed into the video camera. Once the videotape was removed, officers discovered a fully loaded “Taurus” 9mm semi-auto handgun.

The officers checked the weapon and were able to detect the serial number had been altered.

Phone Stun Gun

This 180,000-volt Stun Gun is designed to look like a standard Cell Phone. The cell phone stun gun, which does not work, comes with a leather carrying case, measure 6”x2”x1” and weighs 5.3 ounces without the battery. This weapon is also equipped with a 130-db siren

Law enforcement and Security personnel should be mindful when conducting searches that weapons which resemble ordinary items can incapacitate an individual very quickly.

Bang Stick

According to a recent Palm Beach County (Florida) Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Advisory, one of their deputy sheriffs arrested a man in possession of a “Bangstick” measuring 4 5/8” in length with a 1 ¾” barrel and capable of firing either a single 38 cal. short Colt, .38 special or .357 magnum cartridge. This device is intended for use by fishermen and scuba divers to kill sharks and alligators. When used in such a way it is attached to a threaded pole and then used as a prod to hit the target. A very slight tap at the end of the barrel will cause the device to discharge. When used in such a manner the law considers the use of the “bangstick” as legal. However, when detached and carried in a pocket or around the neck and used under circumstances clearly removed from the sport of fishing or diving, the “bangstick” is considered to be a firearm under federal law. ATF has classified this device as an “any other weapon” that is prosecutable by 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines under Title 26, Section 5871. These devices can be found at almost any scuba or diving accessories shop.

Deputies and officers should be extremely cautious when handling these’ “devices” as they can discharge simply by being tapped on the barrel end. In addition its appearance is deceiving and can lead an officer to discount it as a dangerous weapon. It is a triggerless device that can easily be mistaken for a tool or some other harmless article.