Federal court says NY ban on nunchucks unconstitutional

NEW YORK � A federal court said New York�s ban on nunchucks, the martial arts weapon made famous by Bruce Lee but prohibited in the state for decades, is unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.

Judge Pamela Chen issued her ruling Friday in federal court in Brooklyn.

The plaintiff, James Maloney, started his legal quest after being charged with possession of nunchucks in his home in 2000.

Maloney wants to teach a form of martial art using nunchucks he created for his sons.

The state has completely banned private citizens from owning nunchucks, two rigid rods connected at one end by a chain or rope, since 1974.

The suit names the Nassau County district attorney as defendant. The county�s lawyer had no immediate comment.