AUSTIN, Texas. Brass knuckles are illegal in Texas. However, a new popular kitty key chain that also doubles as a brass knuckle has some worried that people could get injured. Not only are the kitty key chains hard and sharp, if they are used as a weapon, they can penetrate the skin or eyes, according to Fox 7. The keychain has become popular among women who purchase them because they look cute and because they can also be used for self-defense.
Individuals caught driving with the cat keychain can face up to one year in jail, a $4,000 fine, or both penalties. Many purchasers of the keychains aren’t aware that they are illegal.
While women may be purchasing the keychains for self-defense, one self-defense instructor claims that the keychains might lead to more harm. If you aren’t trained and are carrying a weapon, an attacker can always take the weapon from you and use it against you. Furthermore, if you don’t assess a situation carefully or if you use the keychain during horseplay, you could seriously harm another person.
According to the Statesman, police have been confiscating the keychains in Texas.
Yet, the keychains pose additional risks. If children get a hold of them and use them to play fight, they can be incredibly damaging and can cause serious injuries. They can poke out an eye or break the skin. It’s essentially like turning your fist into a knife. Children may be fooled by the colorful and “fun” appearance of the brass knuckles, not aware that they are a deadly weapon. Parents who own the keychains could be putting other children at risk. Essentially leaving the keychains in an accessible place to children can be seen as the same as leaving a deadly knife out or a gun. Unfortunately, the keychain’s cute appearance might make it more appealing to children.
Other individuals have run into trouble when they tried to take their keychains with them through security at the airport. Many people were not aware that trying to take the brass knuckles onto a plane was the same as trying to bring a switchblade aboard.
Texas is not the only state that has made brass knuckles illegal.
If you want something to protect yourself, consider carrying pepper spray or taking a self-defense class with a qualified instructor. Don’t purchase a deadly weapon.
At the end of the day, the biggest risk you face is not necessarily walking alone in a parking lot, but while you are still driving. Accidents kill and injure. Pay attention to the road and put away your cell phone while driving. If you or a loved one has been injured or hurt in Austin, Texas, due to another person’s negligence or neglect—or violence, you may be entitled to seek damages under the law. The Robson Law Firm are Austin, Texas car accident attorneys who work closely with families to help them seek justice after a crash. Visit us at https://robsonlawfirm.com/ to learn more.
Robson Law Firm
1114 Lost Creek Boulevard
Suite 440
Austin, TX 78746
Phone: (512) 345-8200