The case, which has a realistic-looking handle and trigger, holds an iPhone where the barrel of the gun would normally go. An online vendor selling the case calls it a “sexy pistol protective shell for iPhone 6 with unlimited times to pull the trigger.”
Police in a number of states are telling customers not to purchase the novelty item. A sheriff in said he worried what might happen if an officer saw someone with the device tucked into his pocket or waistband.
“If he tugs on that pistol grip, we’re going to assume it’s a gun,” the sheriff said. “That’s the scary part. It’s a split-second decision the officer has to make. You could have something tragic happen.”
Police in other states have echoed the sentiment, with a detective in Alabama calling the case “the most stupid and ridiculous thing I’ve seen in a while.” The detective added:
“It’s going to draw attention and possibly get you shot. Just think of the commotion it’s going to cause if you walk into Wal-Mart with that hanging out of your pocket. I have read on the Internet and received officer alerts on real guns that are hidden in cell phones and cell phone cases. This is stupid and very dangerous.”
So, expecting cops to respect the right to own and to carry guns- and not simply automatically murder those carrying them- means the problem is with someone other than the cops? I don't think so.
ReplyDeleteIf you are so cowardly that you feel the need to shoot anyone who appears to be carrying a gun, you need to lock yourself in a padded room somewhere.
Julie: In a world where they panic and suspend a kid for shaping a piece of pastry in the shape of a gun, I'm not surprised. I've already heard about this case, and will certainly do something on it.
ReplyDelete