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Unarmed Security Guards Confiscate Terrifying Collection Of Weapons At NYC Homeless Shelter

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork)-- Stunning pictures are surfacing of a terrifying collection of cleavers, knives, razors, daggers and other cutting implements confiscated at a homeless shelter as the city suffers through a wave of stabbings, many committed by the homeless.

The entrance to the men's shelter on 30th Street and First Avenue has a sign that reads: "No glass bottles allowed." It's a safety precaution, but there's no mention of knives and guns.

In just a single day, unarmed security guards at the shelter collected a staggering collection of confiscated items, including knives, blades, and a BB gun.

"I don't think they're going to work, so this is to kill somebody," Gregory Floyd, president of Teamsters Local 237, told CBS2's Marcia Kramer.

Floyd was stunned when the security guards he represents showed him the weapons.

"I said, 'This couldn't be just one day, all these weapons? What happens over the course of a year?' I said. We are really under seige," Floyd said.

With the city enduring a wave of knife crimes, up 20 percent this year, it is visible proof of why many of the slashing incidents involve the homeless. Earlier this week, a homeless man slashed a Dunkin' Donuts employee.

"Scary, it's very scary," Robert Mascali, former city deputy commissioner for Homeless Services, told CBS2. "I think things are spiraling out of control. I think the NYPD must get more involved. I would suggest that the NYPD stop and visit the shelters so the residents know the cops could be coming at any time."

City Human Resources Commissioner Steve Banks praised the security guards for finding the weapons and said the city plans to enhance security as part of the soon-to-be complete shelter review.

"We want to see what further actions may be needed," Banks said. "We're going to be providing them with additional training designating particular peace officers to have tasers where needed."

Banks also said he has been consulting with the NYPD as part of the 90-day shelter review ordered by the mayor. The results are due in about two weeks.

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