Massachusetts: Machete attacks on the rise

BOSTON, April 6 (UPI) -- A rash of machete attacks in Massachusetts has raised concerns the inexpensive weapons are too easily obtained, officials said.

At least seven machete attacks have been reported in the Bay State this year, hospitalizing a total of nine people with serious wounds, the Boston Herald reported Sunday.

"It's obviously a very dangerous implement. It can cause severe damage when wielded against another human being," Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley said.

A concern of law enforcement officials reportedly is that machete sales are unregulated.

"As long as it's not (a) double-edge blade, dagger, dirk, stiletto or anything spring-activated, they can sell it," said Boston Police Superintendent Daniel Linskey.

Lawrence Police Chief John Romero said he would welcome stricter rules against the big knives, noting that machete attacks, while rare in Lawrence, have been "very vicious."