Sword Wielding Grand Rapids Man Arrested For Manslaughter

Growing up seeing movies like Star Wars and Pirates of the Caribbean, made owning a sword seem like one of the coolest things imaginable. Finding out we had a family sword as an heirloom only added to the desire for a sword.

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However, as you grow up, you realize that having a sword in modern times is unrealistic (don't bring a knife to a gunfight, etc). However, due to recent sword-involved violence in Grand Rapids and abroad, it got me wondering: what are the rules for owning a sword in Michigan, and how does the law address someone who wields a sword?

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Recent Sword Violence

18-year-old Isiah Williams was arrested after he called the police to inform them he "killed somebody" and was "ready to be put into handcuffs". He revealed to police he used a sword to kill 50-year-old Lynn Edward Jones. His death was ruled a homicide, but Williams was charged with manslaughter and faces 15 years in prison or a $7,500 fine if convicted.

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May seems to have brought something out of people as another sword attack happened this month. Across the pond in London, a 36-year-old man killed a teenage boy and severely injured two police officers. He wounded two men in a "rampage" that has brought charges of murder and attempted murder against Marcus Arduini Monzo.

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How Does Michigan Address Swords?

According to the American Knife and Tool Institute (AKTI), swords are complicated since they tend to be compared to knives. Knives are intended for stabbing or slicing, while swords are designed for striking. Generally, few states have laws regarding swords, but Michigan does actually have some jurisdiction about swords.

While carrying a sheathed knife shorter than 3 1/2 inches if lawful, having a

double-edged broadsword in Michigan would be classified as a double-edged, non-folding stabbing instrument. Having such an instrument in one's vehicle would be a felony.

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So if you want to own a sword, you technically can, but you probably don't want to take it out of your home. It might be best to just invest in a prop sword.

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