In response to a series of violent crimes involving brass knuckles, some Arizona lawmakers are advocating for legislation to make the possession and transfer of these weapons a misdemeanor. The initiative is a result of collaboration between Sen. John Kavanaugh, R-Fountain Hills, and a teenager, Connor Jarnagan, who was attacked by an individual wielding brass knuckles.

Rising Incidents Involving Brass Knuckles

Connor Jarnagan and his mother have been vocal proponents of the proposed Senate Bill 1183, driven by Jarnagan’s personal experience. The teenager was assaulted and punched in the head by a member of the Gilbert Goons, an affluent group of teens linked to various brutal attacks in the Valley. These incidents have brought attention to the dangers associated with brass knuckles, with one incident in Queen Creek resulting in the tragic death of a 16-year-old.

Personal Testimony Before the Senate Judiciary Committee

Jarnagan testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, describing the immediate impact of the attack. The incident left him with a head injury, prompting a visit to the emergency room where doctors revealed the severity of the situation. The prevalence of similar attacks in Gilbert, particularly at a local In-N-Out, raised concerns about the accessibility and use of brass knuckles.

Legislative Response and Proposed Amendments

Senate Bill 1183, crafted by Sen. Kavanaugh, aims to criminalize the possession and transfer of brass knuckles in Arizona. However, Sen. Anthony Kern, a Republican from Glendale, proposed an amendment to restrict the ban to minors. This proposal was later withdrawn after Sen. Anna Hernandez, D-Phoenix, highlighted that some involved in the violent acts were 18 years old, rendering such an amendment ineffective.

Opposition and Alternative Perspectives

Sen. Kern voiced skepticism about the effectiveness of outlawing brass knuckles, expressing concern that law-abiding citizens might be left defenseless if they use these weapons for self-defense. He also suggested that the root issue lies in prosecutors’ offices dropping felony charges too readily, contributing to what he perceives as a “lawless society.” Kern advocated for stricter penalties, even proposing public hangings.

Unanimous Committee Vote and Potential Amendments

Despite some reservations from senators like Kern and Sen. Justine Wadsack, R-Tucson, the committee unanimously voted in favor of forwarding the brass knuckle ban. However, both senators hinted at the likelihood of not supporting the bill in its current form when it reaches the full Senate unless certain amendments are made. Wadsack, notably, disclosed her ownership of brass knuckles, emphasizing that she does not use them and keeps them secured in a safe.

Next Steps: Full Senate Consideration

The proposed brass knuckle ban will now advance to the full 30-member Senate for further consideration and potential amendments. The outcome will determine whether Arizona joins other states in regulating the possession and transfer of these weapons in an effort to address the growing concerns surrounding their use in criminal activities.