Bushey, Hertfordshire – Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to examine the results of a Home Office review that was conducted earlier this year following the tragic deaths of the Hunt family in Bushey, Hertfordshire.
A manhunt has been launched to locate suspect Kyle Clifford, 26, who authorities believe may still be armed with a crossbow. Crossbow-related killings are infrequent, but recent incidents have prompted government officials to consider tightening regulations to prevent these weapons from being used in violent crimes.
Currently, there is no registration system for owning a crossbow, and individuals are not required to possess a license to own one. Crossbows are easily accessible for purchase online, although it is illegal for anyone under 18 to buy or own one. Those found carrying a crossbow in public without a valid reason could face up to four years in prison.
Efforts to implement firearms licensing-style rules for crossbow ownership have been under consideration by the government. A consultation was launched earlier this year to explore the possibility of introducing a licensing system to regulate the use, ownership, and supply of crossbows, with potential buyers facing police background checks.
In the aftermath of a recent attempt to assassinate the Queen using a crossbow, former Home Secretary Priti Patel initiated a review of crossbow regulations. The incidents involving crossbows, including the case of convicted stalker Bryce Hodgson and the tragic death of Sana Muhammad, have underscored the potential risks associated with these weapons.
The Home Office completed its review in April, but progress on potential legislative changes was halted due to the General Election. Following her recent appointment as Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper is expected to review the findings and consider whether further tightening of laws regarding crossbows is necessary.
The focus on crossbow regulations comes in response to the alarming incidents across the country involving these weapons. The government aims to enhance measures to prevent violence and ensure public safety in light of the dangerous potential posed by crossbows when used as weapons. As authorities continue to investigate the recent killings in Bushey, efforts to strengthen regulations surrounding crossbows remain a top priority for the Home Office.