JANESVILLE — Janesville residents have been complaining to police about the annual “Nerf War” games played by high school students, and authorities are urging participants to be cautious.
While these activities may seem harmless and fun, they have led to incidents that highlight potential dangers and misunderstandings.
In past years, these games have resulted in traffic accidents, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and public nudity, according to police.
More recently, reports have surfaced of participants entering residences that do not belong to them—sometimes while carrying Nerf guns that could easily be mistaken for real weapons.
These actions have led to confrontations between participants and concerned residents, creating unnecessary fear and potential danger.
Police want to remind everyone that these behaviors pose serious risks. A Nerf gun, though intended for play, could be misinterpreted as a real weapon, potentially leading to dangerous situations, panic or law enforcement intervention.
Policr say any illegal activities associated with these games—such as trespassing, disorderly conduct, or public nudity—will be investigated and may result in legal consequences.
Police encourage parents to talk with their children about responsible behavior and the potential dangers of these activities.
Students are being asked to be mindful of their actions, and to respect private property, and avoid situations that could cause alarm or confusion.
If you see suspicious or concerning behavior, please report it to the Rock County Communications Center at 608-757-2244.