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Clarinda Police warn parents of dangerous social media trend

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March 18th, 2022 by Ric Hanson

(Clarinda, Iowa) – Police in Clarinda took to social media, Thursday, to warn parents about a dangerous trend that’s been taking place. Authorities say “Over the weekend, officers responded to a call involving kids shooting water-based gel beads at unsuspecting motorists. This latest TikTok trend is making its way across the country. Beyond the potential for injuring someone or distracting a driver and causing a potential crash, this behavior could rise to the level of a crime. Shooting any projectile at, onto or in a city street is a violation of city ordinance.
Not only is it dangerous for those being shot at, it is dangerous for individuals with the toy guns as they could be mistaken for real guns.” Police Chief Keith Brothers asks parents and guardians to please, discuss the dangers and consequences of this type of behavior with your children.  Brothers says “We cannot stress enough the dangers involved in these types of activities. Pointing a gun at someone whether it is real or fake, can result in dire consequences. Please take the opportunity to speak with children about social media platforms mindfully and ensure they understand the ramifications of participating in this type of trend.”