As the weather warms and summer approaches, the Lincoln Police Department is warning that gel ball or water pellet guns, such as Orbeez or SplatRBall, are illegal to possess or discharge within city limits.
“They are dangerous, can cause injuries, and scare people,” LPD Public Information Manager Erika Thomas says. “In mid-April, a 16-year-old was referred for five assault charges and disturbing the peace after shooting multiple kids with water beads, leaving welts.”
Thomas says calls about these guns are increasing. “We’ve had 10 so far in 2026, with seven of those occurring since April 11. As school gets out, we expect more.” In 2025, officers responded to 31 incidents.
Thomas says carrying, using, or providing a juvenile with a toy gun that discharges projectiles is prohibited. “You and your child could face legal consequences for possession, along with additional charges for discharging it.”
She added that related offenses can include aggravated assault, unlawful weapons discharge within city limits, and vandalism.