In a bizarre turn of events, a South Carolina man has been apprehended by the police after allegedly robbing a convenience store armed with a relic from the 1980s—a Nintendo light gun. The suspect, disguised in a mask, wig, and hoodie, wielded the NES Zapper gun accessory to carry out the crime. With a demand for cash and a wave of the modified gaming accessory, the 25-year-old made off with $300. This audacious act highlights the alarming trend of using fake guns in criminal activities, raising serious concerns about public safety.
Over 15 percent of robberies involve Fake Guns
According to York County deputies, the suspect brandished the Nintendo light gun, spray-painted black to resemble a real firearm, and pointed it at the store clerk, coercing them to hand over the cash from the register. Law enforcement officers swiftly responded to the incident and later found the perpetrator in a Dollar General parking lot, still in possession of the modified weapon.
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Zapper, the iconic accessory bundled with the NES console, was primarily used for games like Duck Hunt, Hogan’s Alley, and Gumshoe during the 1980s. Recognizable for its bright orange and gray design, the Zapper utilized an internal optical sensor to translate trigger presses into on-screen actions.
While this incident may seem comical at first glance, the use of fake guns in crimes is a grave concern. A study conducted by Congress in 1990 revealed that over 15 percent of robberies involved fake guns. These imitation firearms, often indistinguishable from real ones, pose a significant threat to victims. Consequently, many jurisdictions impose penalties for using fake guns that are comparable to those for real firearms.
Recognizing the potential danger posed by realistic-looking toy or replica guns, New York State has recently enacted legislation banning such items unless they are clearly distinguishable as fake, typically through the use of vibrant colors. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the risks associated with fake guns and protect the public from potential harm.
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(Via)
