KALAMAZOO, Michigan — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) is warning residents of a trend where groups of people are targeting unsuspecting people and shooting them with water beads.
The water beads, known by the brand name Orbeez, are small pellets that absorb water and are fired out of pellet guns.
KDPS shared in a Facebook post detailing that they have received several complaints from people who were walking or driving down the street and were shot by Orbeez.
Authorities are warning that anyone caught firing or possessing the Orbeez guns in an unlawful manner will be subject to arrest. Police said that some of the Orbeez guns they have come across have even been modified to look like real guns.
If you are caught using one of these illegally, you can face charges of assault and battery, disturbing the peace and possession of a facsimile firearm, KDPS warned.
"KDPS recognizes that these toys may be used for legitimate recreational purposes; however, we strongly encourage their use only with other willing participants in order to avoid trouble and needless injuries," the department wrote in their Facebook post.
KDPS said this trend was occurring in other cities in pervious years, but is new to Kalamazoo.
Officers found two Orbeez guns during a traffic stop last week along with an illegal real firearm in the possession of a 20-year-old, KDPS said. The 20-year-old suspect was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon and lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail.
The Facebook post also detailed an incident on Wednesday where officers were called to the 1400 block of N. Westnedge Avenue after a man was hit in the face with Orbeez. Officers found two suspects, aged 12 and 14, who were involved and seized the Orbeez guns. The two children could face charges of assault and battery. The case is currently under review by the county prosecutor.
We are asking anyone with information about this incident or any other criminal activity to call the Operations Division at 269-337-8142. Information can also be provided anonymously through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, the “P3Tips” app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.
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