The Sheriff’s Office in New Mexico is standing by its choice not to arrest two young boys, aged 7 and 9.
A video released recently by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) shows the boys, dressed in Star Wars-themed pajamas, hiding behind a covered air conditioning unit while holding a loaded gun.
The almost six-minute video depicts the children looking around as if they were trying to evade detection.
Eventually, deputies surround the boys and take them into custody.
Sheriff John Allen commented on the situation, stating, “This incident illustrates the complex intersection of juvenile crime, mental health, and public safety. We are taking important steps to close the service gap and enhance our ability to work with juveniles involved with firearms and violent crime.”
This incident took place on February 16, but was brought to light on Thursday as BCSO introduced the work of its Behavioral Health Unit and new initiatives aimed at addressing service gaps in the community.
According to reports, Allen mentioned that deputies had been called to the boys’ home multiple times prior to the standoff due to ongoing issues with the family. It remains unclear how the boys acquired the guns.
Though the firearms shown in the video were confiscated, no charges were filed against the boys, and they have not been removed from their home.
The statement continues, “Children are our future. Some might argue for locking them away, but…”
In remarks to Fox News Digital, a BCSO sergeant noted that the use of a drone during the situation helped ensure a quick and safe assessment of the area, ultimately preventing a more dangerous encounter with the boys.
