Weapons Policy

For Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters

Purpose

Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters are dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all guests, staff, volunteers, and visitors. This Weapons Policy is established to protect everyone on the premises by strictly prohibiting the possession or use of weapons within shelter property.

Policy Statement

The possession, carrying, use, or storage of weapons of any kind is strictly prohibited on the premises of Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters. This policy applies to all individuals, regardless of whether they have a permit or license for the weapon.

Scope

This policy applies to all guests, staff, volunteers, visitors, and contractors at Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters.

Definition of Weapons

Weapons include, but are not limited to:

Firearms (handguns, rifles, shotguns, etc.).
Knives with blades longer than 3 inches (excluding kitchen utensils used for shelter purposes).
Explosives, fireworks, or incendiary devices.
Tasers, stun guns, or other electronic disabling devices.
Brass knuckles, clubs, bats, or other objects intended to be used as weapons.
Any item that could be used to intimidate, harm, or threaten others.

Policy Enforcement

1. Prohibited Possession

Individuals found in possession of a weapon will be asked to immediately remove the weapon from the premises.
If a weapon is discovered during entry or while on the premises, staff may confiscate the weapon temporarily and notify law enforcement if necessary.

2. Screening

Guests may be subject to bag checks or screenings upon entry to ensure compliance with this policy.
Any weapons found during screening will be confiscated and handled according to shelter procedures.

3. Violent or Threatening Behavior

Any individual who uses or threatens to use a weapon will be reported to law enforcement immediately.
The individual will be removed from the premises and may face permanent exclusion from the shelter.

Exceptions

The following exceptions to this policy may apply:

Law Enforcement Personnel:
- Police officers or other law enforcement personnel who are on duty and carrying weapons as part of their official responsibilities are exempt from this policy.
Religious or Cultural Items:
- Items carried for religious or cultural purposes that could be classified as weapons (e.g., ceremonial knives) must be disclosed to shelter management upon entry. Shelter management will determine how these items can be safely stored or handled.

Violation of Policy

1. Guests

Guests found in violation of this policy may face the following consequences:
- First Offense: A verbal warning and immediate removal of the weapon.
- Second Offense: Temporary suspension from shelter services.
- Third Offense: Permanent discharge from the shelter, with referrals to alternative services provided.

2. Staff and Volunteers

Staff or volunteers found in violation of this policy may face disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer status.

3. Visitors

Visitors violating this policy will be asked to leave the premises immediately and may be barred from returning.

Storage of Prohibited Items

In certain cases, shelter management may temporarily store prohibited items (e.g., knives or tools) for guests until they leave the premises. Items will be securely stored and returned only when the individual exits the shelter.

Reporting and Documentation

All incidents involving weapons must be reported to shelter management immediately.
An incident report will be completed and filed, detailing the nature of the violation, actions taken, and any follow-up required.

Policy Review

This Weapons Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices and local laws. Updates will be made as necessary to address emerging safety concerns.

By enforcing this Weapons Policy, Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters aim to maintain a safe, welcoming, and secure environment for all individuals seeking refuge and assistance.