A disturbing video has surfaced showing two children, ages 7 and 9, holding a loaded gun and confronting police officers in New Mexico, USA. The footage, released last Thursday, captures an incident from February that was recorded by a drone operated by the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office, as reported by ABC.
The six-minute video reveals the children handling the firearm and passing it between each other behind an air conditioning unit, seemingly in an attempt to remain unseen. In response, Bernalillo police officers deployed a non-lethal weapon to subdue the situation, allowing them to secure the area and prevent further escalation, according to the report.
Sheriff John Allen, who opted not to arrest the children or press charges, commented that the case highlights the intricate relationship between juvenile delinquency, mental health issues, and public safety. "We are taking significant steps to address service gaps and expand our capacity to work with minors involved in firearm or violent crimes," Allen stated.
Allen released the video to support the efforts of his behavioral health unit and a new initiative aimed at addressing crucial service deficiencies within the community. Prior to this dangerous encounter, officers had been called to the children's home a dozen times due to family issues, as reported by local media.
The police emphasized that the drone footage was instrumental in enabling officers to secure the scene, ultimately preventing a potential lethal force confrontation with the minors. Allen’s decision not to file charges has sparked controversy, with many arguing that the children should have been sent to a correctional facility.
Frequently Asked Questions about Minors and Firearm Incidents in the U.S.
What measures are being taken to address juvenile delinquency in Bernalillo County?
Sheriff John Allen has emphasized expanding capabilities to work with minors involved in violent crimes and addressing gaps in services through a new initiative in the community.
Why did the police use a non-lethal weapon in this incident?
Law enforcement officers opted for a non-lethal weapon to ensure the safety of the children and to prevent the situation from escalating to the use of lethal force.
What was the community's reaction to the decision not to charge the children?
The decision not to press charges against the children has been met with controversy, with some community members believing they should have been placed in a correctional facility.