Crossbow Offences (Sections 1-3 Crossbows Act 1987)

The Crossbows Act 1987 creates three offences. Section 1: a person who sells or lets on hire a crossbow or a part of a crossbow to a person under the age of eighteen is guilty of an offence, unless he believes him to be eighteen or older and has reasonable ground for the belief. Section 2: a person under the age of eighteen who buys or hires a crossbow or a part of a crossbow is guilty of an offence. Section 3: a person under the age of eighteen who has with him a crossbow capable of discharging a missile, or parts of a crossbow which together (and without any other parts) can be assembled to form such a crossbow, is guilty of an offence unless under the supervision of a person who is twenty-one years of age or older. Maximum sentence: for s.1, on summary conviction, imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale, or both (s.6(1)); for s.2 or s.3, on summary conviction, a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (s.6(2)). The convicting court may order the forfeiture or disposal of any crossbow or part in respect of which the offence was committed (s.6(3)). Section 4 gives a constable powers of search, detention, seizure and entry on to land other than a dwelling-house where he suspects with reasonable cause an offence under s.3.

In practice

This is a summary-only offence: it must be tried at the magistrates' court. Police may charge without CPS authority for summary offences. Section 4 of the Crossbows Act 1987 gives a constable power to search a person suspected of having a crossbow and to seize and retain the crossbow. An appropriate adult must be present for any interview if the suspect is under 18. Consider whether any other offences have been committed (such as criminal damage, threats, or assault). The crossbow must be made safe and exhibited with full continuity. The suspect must be cautioned in accordance with Code C PACE 1984 before any questions about the offence are put to them.