Media Release 315- New Year’s Eve Celebratory Gunfire Reduction
As we approach the New Year, the Birmingham Police Department has launched our Citywide Celebratory Gunfire Reduction Campaign. The campaign is designed to bring awareness to the dangers of celebratory gunfire and reduce injury and property damage associated with this irresponsible behavior. Unfortunately, celebratory gunfire has become a tradition in our city.
Discharging a firearm in the city limits of Birmingham is against the law. By engaging in this careless behavior you risk the possibility of striking a person or pet causing serious injury or even death. Celebratory Gunfire can also cause major property damage.
Although the Birmingham Police Department has made strides in reducing celebratory gunfire, the problem persists. Last year the Birmingham Police Department responded to over 1200 ShotSpotter calls. The Birmingham Police Department will utilize various resources such as ShotSpotter gunfire detection system and the Real Time Crime Center along with officers working overlapping shifts to combat this dangerous problem.
Birmingham Police officers have been distributing additional information for public awareness. We have partnered with community leaders through video messaging to explain the dangers that their community faces with celebratory gunfire. Additional officers and resources will be utilized in efforts to reduce Celebratory Gunfire.
The Birmingham Police Department wants everyone to have a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve celebration.
