04/17/2026
I came across this post and I noticed the toy within 30 seconds. Then I started thinking "what if someone is holding the toy and pointing it at me?"... well, it wouldn't immediately look like a toy as the markings that gave it away are not facing me. Toys like this should not be sold to children. They look too realistic and could cause severe issues and consequences. Can you spot the toy pistol? This sheriff posted great information and we as parents need to be vigilant and responsible for the toys we purchase for our kids. A toy gun needs to be clearly marked and not confused with a real firearm.
Now don't take this post the wrong way. I'm 100% about teaching children firearm safety, but i will never give my child a toy that can be easily mistaken for a real firearm.
Which one do you think is the toy?
They appear real, but one of these is a toy!
As Sheriff, I must speak honestly to our community: purchasing toy guns that closely resemble real fi****ms is a reckless decision with potentially irreversible consequences. In today’s environment, our deputies are required to make split-second judgments to protect lives—both theirs and the public’s.
When a child is holding an object that looks indistinguishable from a real weapon, there’s no time to pause and verify if it’s a toy. Such moments of uncertainty can lead to tragedy, and no parent, officer, or community should bear the burden of a preventable mistake.
This message is not about banning childhood or innocent play. It’s about responsibility. Brightly colored, easily recognizable toys are important—they clearly differentiate imagination from reality. When that boundary is blurred, we put our children at risk.
I strongly urge every parent: be intentional. Know what is entering your home. Talk openly with your children about safety, RESPECT for LAW ENFORCEMENT, and the serious consequences of their actions.
Our mission is to protect this community every day. Help us keep your children safe through careful decisions that minimize their risk of harm.