Since they had multiple beads, I would assume that these were "assault rosaries". "When rosaries are outlawed, only outlaws will have rosaries."
Yes, I can see the future. Child-proof "prayer locks" on the rosary. Background check before acquiring rosaries. Concealed-carry permits! "Smart-rosary" technology to prevent anyone but the owner from using it. The potential list is limitless!
A standard Rosary has 59 beads ... that's a high capacity magazine ... combine that with the Crucifix Lug (with crucifix affixed) and Medallion, and you definitely have an assault weapon.