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Richmond Police to enforce reduction of celebratory gunfire during July 4th Holiday

Posted on The Richmond Police Department Facebook page, July 2, 2012

Celebratory gunfire remains a problem in many cities, particularly over the Independence Day Holiday. The sad reality is that the reckless discharge of a firearm can often have tragic results when innocent people are hit by the bullets and injured or killed. Any bullet discharged from a gun — even into the sky– must land at some point, and the risks are significant for injury or death.

The Richmond Police Department is committed to its policy of strictly enforcing illegal gun use and its initiative to combat gun violence in our neighborhoods. We are committed to efforts that further safe and secure environments, as well as initiatives that improve quality of life in our community.

During this July 4th Holiday, the Police Department will be deploying patrol officers in specific areas of the city that have the highest amount of gunshot and firework activity recorded by the ShotSpotter gunfire alert system over recent months as well as during last year’s 4th of July. Officers will respond to all ShotSpotter activations in these areas and arrest anyone caught discharging a firearm in public. As is usually the case, officers will also be deployed throughout the city to maintain public peace, prevent crime and violence, and arrest impaired drivers.

The Richmond Police Department uses ShotSpotter technology to precisely detect and locate gunfire incidents and gather gunfire data to fight crime and reduce gun violence in Richmond. ShotSpotter provides real-time, immediate gunshot location data that enables informed tactical decisions and a more accurate and timely emergency response, while improving first responder safety. ShotSpotter data also makes it possible to gather more forensic evidence that facilitates more thorough gun crime investigations. It enhances our crime analysis and data-driven policing capabilities, helping to improve public safety and a sense of security.