pellet gun

Hamilton Police arrested two individuals following two distinct weapons-related incidents, both involving the suspected sighting of a firearm.

On Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at approximately 3:15 p.m. Hamilton Police responded to a reported theft at a commercial establishment in Jackson Square, where a suspect was allegedly seen carrying a firearm. Following a search, police arrested the suspect at the intersection of Main Street and Hughson Street. Upon conducting a search, police confirmed the firearm was a pellet gun.

Hamilton Police have arrested 25-year-old, Nickolas Renato Reda for the following charges;

• Carrying Concealed Weapon
• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
• Theft under $5000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under $5000
• Two Counts of Fail to Comply Probation

Nickolas Renato Reda had his bail opposed and will be attending court.

On Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., Hamilton Police responded to a motel near King Street East and Wentworth Street in response to reports of an individual struck in the face with a firearm. Police searched and located a male fitting the suspect's description walking near King Street and Emerald Street. The officers executed a gunpoint arrest.  Subsequent to the arrest, a search revealed a pellet gun and a butterfly knife in the suspect’s possession.

Hamilton Police have arrested 37-year-old, Christopher Macleod for the following charges;

• Possession of Prohibited Weapon
• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
• Fail to Comply Probation
• Two counts of Contrary to Order

Christopher Macleod had his bail opposed and will be attending court.

When responding to weapons calls, police must treat the situation as if lethal weapons are involved until a thorough investigation determines otherwise. Unfortunately, visually differentiating between real firearms and replicas is often impossible until the investigation is completed. Police officers responding to these situations must make quick decisions about the nature of the weapon, with potential significant and lasting consequences.

Air guns, including gel pellet guns, can cause serious injury when fired, and if designed to look like real firearms, they are treated as lethal weapons by law enforcement. Firing or brandishing pellet guns may result in individuals facing significant weapons-related charges.

For the safety of our community members and law enforcement personnel, we strongly discourage the purchase and use of these items. It is important for everyone to be aware of the potential risks associated with owning and displaying items that resemble firearms.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com