July 10th 2024.
In the United Kingdom, it is legal to purchase a crossbow without needing a license. However, this has recently come into question as a manhunt is underway for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, who is suspected of triple murder and is believed to be armed and dangerous with a crossbow in his possession. This has raised concerns about the legality of such weapons and how they can be obtained.
Former top Met detective, Chris Phillips, believes that the police's mention of a crossbow as the potential weapon used in the killings suggests that it may have been involved. This has led to questions about the complex legal status of crossbows in the UK, which falls somewhere between archery and firearm laws.
Under the Crossbows Act 1987, it is legal to buy a crossbow in the UK without a license. However, it is illegal for those under 18 to possess one without adult supervision. Carrying a crossbow in a public place without a valid reason is also prohibited and can result in up to four years in prison. Additionally, it is against the law to use a crossbow or bow and arrow to hunt live animals under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. In Scotland, it is also illegal to possess a crossbow while intoxicated in a public place under the Civic Government Act 1982.
The government has considered tightening the laws surrounding crossbows after a series of high-profile cases. In one instance, a man was encouraged by an AI chatbot to break into Windsor Castle on Christmas Day 2021 with a loaded crossbow to assassinate the late Queen Elizabeth. This prompted former home secretary Priti Patel to order a review of crossbow regulations in order to prevent violence on the streets. One proposed idea was to introduce a licensing system and police checks for anyone attempting to purchase a crossbow, similar to the process for buying a gun.
Following the sentencing of the would-be assassin, former Safeguarding Minister Laura Farris expressed that while crossbows are not commonly used in violent crime in the UK, they can still be highly dangerous. She encouraged the public and those in the industry to share their views on the matter in order to ensure the appropriate measures are in place to keep the streets safe. As the debate continues, the legal status of crossbows in the UK remains a complex and pressing issue.
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