OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Officials say criminal charges are being referred against a juvenile who was allegedly walking around Oshkosh with a facsimile firearm, prompting a police response.
Around 3:25 p.m. Tuesday, the Oshkosh Police Department was notified of an individual in the 300 block of N. Eagle Street who appeared to be armed with a gun.
Officers responded to the area and notified the school resource officer at the nearby Oshkosh West High School of the incident, as a precaution.
Police located the subject by a church in the area, but the individual fled through residential yards. The subject was detained approximately one block away.
A search produced a hidden facsimile firearm in the area where the individual was initially seen by officers. OPD’s investigation did not reveal any threats to a specific individual or location.
According to a news release, criminal charges of disorderly conduct and restrictions on use of facsimile firearms will be referred to the juvenile justice system.
“The Oshkosh Police Department wishes to remind all parents that facsimile or replica handguns can be easily mistaken for real firearms by law enforcement officers and the general public due to their realistic appearance. This can quickly escalate situations and lead to potentially tragic outcomes during disturbances. We strongly encourage parents to be aware of the risks associated with their children having facsimile weapons,” the release states.
Anyone who has information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Oshkosh Police Department at (920) 236-5700. If you have information about this incident but wish to remain anonymous, contact the Winnebago County Crime Stoppers at (920) 231-8477 or through the P3 App.
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