Police find banned switchblades on 20-year-old in Pressig!

Police find banned switchblades on 20-year-old in Pressig!

On Monday afternoon, November 10, 2025, the police in Pressig (Kronach district) made a surprising discovery during a traffic stop. The officers noticed a 20-year-old man and during the following check they discovered two prohibited switchblades in his vehicle. These were stored unsecured in the driver's door and in the glove compartment. The Ludwigsstadt police immediately discovered a violation of the weapons law and initiated an investigation.

The young man, who was reported for a similar offense in May, now faces a hefty fine. The authorities take such incidents seriously, as the possession and use of such knives is subject to strict regulations in Germany. According to the Weapons Law), switchblades are classified as weapons because they can be used at the push of a button and thus serve to impair the ability to attack or defend.

Legal framework for knives in Germany

The discussion about the permissibility of certain types of knives is a hot topic, especially in border areas with neighboring countries where different regulations apply. There are clear rules for carrying knives: Prohibited types such as switchblades must not be owned or carried unless specific exceptions apply.

According to the Steinhausen Law Firm, the possession of switchblades without a legitimate interest will be prohibited from 2024. There are exceptions, for example, for certain professional groups or sporting activities. Banned knives such as throwing stars, fist knives and butterfly knives are almost completely prohibited unless they are used for special purposes, such as by hunters.

The regulations surrounding knives are not only legally complex, but also pose social challenges. There has been a rise in knife cases in recent years, particularly among young men, which is a cause for concern. This trend highlights how knives can contribute to the escalation of conflict and underscores the need for preventive measures and education.

Criminal consequences

The legal consequences for owning and carrying banned knives are severe. A violation could result in imprisonment for up to three years or high fines. The fines for illegally carrying knives that are not prohibited can be up to 10,000 euros. It is therefore often advisable to leave the knife at home to avoid legal risks.

The recent events in Pressig are another example of how important it is for all citizens to be informed about the applicable laws and regulations. In the current case, the 20-year-old now has to expect serious consequences, a circumstance that should also encourage others to deal with the legal framework at an early stage.