Web ‘weapons’ post sparks alert
ATEENAGER sparked a scare after posting an image of two replica guns on social media.
The 19-year-old, from Macclesfield, published a photo of the ‘ weapons’ including an imitation handgun, automatic rifle and an adapted baseball on Snapchat.
Police were tipped off by a member of the public at 9am on September 24 and traced the image to the teenager’s home in Paradise Street.
Officers from Macclesfield’s response team went to the house at 2pm but could not trace the teen.
Instead the young man’s father handed the items over to police.
Police removed two replica guns and the baseball bat which had razor blades sticking out of it.
The teen was later spoken to by police and let off with a warning. It is understood that the Snapchat post did not contain anything threatening.
Officers are now urging parents to monitor what their children could be collecting.
Sergeant Rob Simpson said: “The firearms, which on the face of it look real, and the baseball bat, could have caused fear in the community and were handed over by an adult in his absence.
“The teenager will be strongly advised about his behaviour.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to remind parents to keep an eye on their children’s interests and hobbies.
“It’s better to be safe than sorry, rather than find armed officers knocking at your door.”
A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “On 24 September 2017 police were made aware of a Snapchat post indicating a 19-year-old man from Macclesfield had a number of firearms.
“Following an investigation into the location of the teenager, officers attended an address in Paradise Street in Macclesfield and seized two replica guns and an adapted baseball bat.”
It is lawful to own a replica or imitation firearm.
However you are not allowed to possess them in a public place unless used in historical reenactments, theatrical productions and film making.
If you take a BB gun onto the streets you may get arrested for this offence.
Police respond to any call where a gun is involved and send armed officers.
The Firearms Act 1968 states: “An imitation firearm is anything which has the appearance of being a firearm, regardless of whether or not it is capable of discharging a shot, bullet or other missile.” A PAIR of adorable dogs are looking for a new home after being abandoned.
Father and daughter Snoop and Macy are being looked after by a foster family in Macclesfield.
The Jack Russell Terriers, aged eight and 12 respectively, were found abandoned with an American Bulldog in July.
The dogs were initially separated with Macy transferred to the Macclesfield branch of the RSPCA. But when it was discovered Snoop was her dad, they were reunited.
Both have been neutered, micro chipped and vaccinated but are in need of a loving home.
A spokesman for the Macclesfield branch of the RSPCA said: “Snoop is the dinkiest Jack but with a big character, full of the joys of spring and just so friendly, and he loves to run about and play ball. He also loves his grub.
“Macy is the sweetest little girl, very affectionate just like her dad - she too loves toys and adores running those little legs off.
“They are both typical high energy Jacks so will need an active owner. They are looking for a pet free home. This pair will melt anyone’s heart, especially the Jack fans out there.”
For more details visit the branch’s Facebook page or call 01625 669620.