In Camarillo, local police are cautioning residents about a high school game that has been causing a stir. Dubbed "Water Assassins," the game involves senior students hunting down classmates with toy water guns, and it's bringing a wave of 911 calls from concerned citizens who mistake the antics for actual criminal activity.
During this seasonal game, teens record their "assassinations" to confirm hits, resulting in increased law enforcement intervention. Played outside school hours, the goal is to target a student assigned to them, often at homes, in vehicles, or at events. However, incidents have escalated to the point of mimicking real firearms and breaking various laws, as mentioned in a media release from the Camarillo Community Resources Unit. "The game is not sponsored by schools and is not typically played at school," Senior Deputy Ryan Shoden noted, emphasizing the challenges posed to law enforcement and the safety concerns for players and the public.
Authorities are not taking the issue lightly, advising parents to discuss this matter with their children. The main recommendations include avoiding the use of realistic-looking water guns, not disrupting public peace or business operations, and refraining from wearing dark clothes and hiding in potentially dangerous areas at night. The Camarillo Community Resources Unit and the School Resource Officers stress the importance of safe and responsible gameplay to avoid any potentially dangerous actions.
According to Senior Deputy Shoden, the police have a solid relationship with local schools and regularly engage with students—to ensure their safety is the top priority for the remainder of the school year. While the game might seem like harmless fun to the students, the blend of real-world consequences and play has put a strain on community resources. "The Camarillo SROs enjoy regularly talking to students at different locations in Camarillo," Shoden added, indicating their proactive approach to dealing with the situation.
For those with further questions or concerns about the game or related school safety issues, Senior Deputy Ryan Shoden, the Camarillo Police Department's Youth Services Coordinator, can be reached for assistance. Meanwhile, Ventura County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of anyone breaking the law about these games, with assurances that callers can stay anonymous.
