Germantown, WI – The Germantown Police Department has always had a great working relationship with the Germantown School District. Because Of that we wanted to share a letter that was sent out to families of GHS Seniors regarding a game that is being played in the community. We are doing this in an effort to keep everyone safe! If you see concerning behavior, feel free to call our dispatch center- 262-253-7780
Dear Warhawk Senior Families,
We are writing this letter jointly from the Germantown High School administrative team as well as the Germantown Police Department. We are concerned about reports from the community regarding a game that senior students are playing called “Paranoia.”
For those who may be unfamiliar with the game, students create teams and use “Nerf” style guns to shoot opponents, who are then eliminated from the game.
The Germantown School District does not support this game in any way and prohibits its play on District properties or at any school functions. Any students found to be engaging in this game on District property will be subject to school disciplinary actions, which may also include referral for a violation of our Activities Code of Conduct and subsequent suspension from school-based activities.
While students who are playing the game are focused on having fun, there have been several reports in the community of reckless behavior as a result of the game. These incidents include unsafe driving, disorderly conduct, and reports of stalking or hiding near the homes of opponents.
In addition, some of the “Nerf” weapons that students are using appear to look like real handguns and long guns, especially in dark conditions. Community residents may suspect game behaviors as burglary or assume that the person has a real weapon.
As a result of such reports, we wish to raise awareness of the game and discourage involvement by our students. We care deeply about the safety and security of our students and want to raise awareness of the “Paranoia” game and its risks.
The Germantown Police Department also discourages participation in this game. Those who are referred to law enforcement by concerned citizens can expect to be prosecuted. As a reminder, under Wisconsin state law, 17-year-old students can be prosecuted as adults.
We look forward to the successful completion of another school year. We ask for your partnership in keeping our school and community safe for all.
Sincerely,
The GHS Administrative Team
SRO Toni Olson, Germantown Police Department