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Imagine our surprise this afternoon when a police officer showed up at our front door. I mean, we’re not running an illegal dog-fighting business or anything like that. We’re law-abiding citizens.
It seems that one of our neighbors (we’re pretty sure we know which one) called the police because our son, pictured above, was shooting his Red Ryder BB gun in the backyard, and it is illegal to do that within city limits. The officer was apologetic as he spoke to us — telling us that it is a silly law, but a law nonetheless. We were unaware of the law, and will certainly comply from now on.
But that’s not what bothers me about all this.
What bothers me is that our neighbor would actually call the police about something like this! When our son shoots his BB gun in the backyard, he generally sets up a target (or an old action figure) on the back of the deck and shoots at it. The only person who might get hurt is him. As you can see, the only thing behind our backyard is an open field — no houses, no people. Why in the world would they call the police? If they’re concerned that he might harm himself or someone else, why not come over and tell us? Calling the police seems like an extreme measure.
Even the police officer thought the whole thing was rather silly. We’re just going to ignore it, go on with our lives, and obey the law. But the whole thing just makes me sad. What happened to just being neighborly?
If you knew which one it was you could shoot their mailbox!!
Do they sell silencers for BB Guns?
That is a sad commentary on where we are as a society these days. It’s for sure not the “Wonder Years” anymore, huh?
Sorry bro!
DU
I always knew you Slaters were troublemakers! For the love of all that is good in the world! Can’t a kid catch a break! How fun is that..shooting at action figures. How totally LAME to call the police! Is sending poop in the mail illegal? Hehehe..is that wrong?
Actually, I called the police and told them to arrest Eli for breaking our lawn mower. They asked if I had any evidence and I told them he was an angry, violent kid and that if they went to his house, they would probably find him yielding a weapon and preparing to take over the free world. BUSTED!!!!!
Donna you are SO funny … HA HA HA HA
Better not tell Ray. He has one as well!!
Jeff, first thing, move out of that fascist state. Second, get that boy a real rifle. Third, come see Duncan and me so we can light up the night with gunfire until you’re all mellow inside.
And about that neighbor… well, I’ll inform the Marines and let it go at that…
You might want to check the law. I know in TN, state law overrules local law, which means even if a city bans shooting anything, the state law says its ok, and they can’t do anything.
Mercy! The kid’s already got a record. Can tattoos, piercings, and spiked hair be far behind?
Jeff, I apologize for doing it this way, but I’ve lost your email. I am starting a series on guns, self defense, and scripture today at Tentpegs. You and your son might enjoy it. Our invitation to take you both shooting is still open!