Crossbow sales are set to be prohibited, with current owners required to obtain a license for possession, as per recent announcements. The new legislation aims to tighten regulations on these weapons in the wake of several tragic incidents, including the brutal murders of Carol Hunt and her daughters Louise and Hannah in 2024. Laura Sugden, who lost her partner Shane Gilmer to a crossbow attack in 2018, expressed relief at the decision, emphasizing the potential to save lives.
Additionally, the use of deadly broadhead arrows will also be outlawed, a victory attributed to the relentless advocacy of Ms. Sugden, who survived a crossbow attack while pregnant. She emphasized the ease of access to these lethal weapons and the need for stricter controls to prevent further tragedies.
The move to license existing crossbow owners is part of the government’s efforts to enhance public safety. Those failing to comply with licensing requirements may face weapon surrender mandates. The Home Office underscored the need for these measures to avert harm and protect communities, expressing intentions to consult on the specific implementation details.
Current laws already prohibit the sale of crossbows to individuals under 18, with carrying a crossbow in public without a valid reason carrying up to a four-year prison sentence. The upcoming consultation on the licensing scheme and the timeline for the ban’s enforcement are yet to be finalized.
The decision follows a public consultation that garnered nearly 3,000 responses, highlighting concerns over the easy availability of crossbows. Discussions on restricting these weapons began in 2021 after an incident involving an individual brandishing a crossbow at Windsor Castle. The ban on sales of crossbows marks a significant milestone in addressing public safety concerns, culminating from years of advocacy efforts.
