Archived News Release from 2009

For Immediate Release
                     
Redwood City Police Announce “Operation Silent Night" for New Years Eve 2009

Redwood City, CA - December 21, 2009 - The Redwood City Police Department is advising the public that celebrating the New Year by shooting a gun into the air is not only illegal, it can hurt or kill people.

In response to random gunfire on New Years Eves in the past, the Redwood City Police Department announces "Operation Silent Night 2009." The Police Department hopes to reduce random gunfire through a program of education, suppression, and prosecution. The Department will be using its "Shot Spotter" gunshot locater system, which determines the exact location of any firearm discharged in the city. The reckless discharge of a firearm is a felony under section 246.3 of the Penal Code and carries up to a three-year prison sentence.

Flyers are being distributed to neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses offering a reward of up to $500 for information leading to the arrest of any persons discharging firearms. The Department has established a special gunshot telephone hotline, which is (650) 780-7639, and urges the public to call in the event gunfire is heard, particularly on New Years Eve. Through increased public awareness, the Redwood City Police have seen a significant decrease in calls of random gunfire, and attribute it to this program.

The Department will also staff additional patrol officers on New Years Eve, with directed patrol looking for drunk drivers, random gunfire, and other disturbances. Teams of Redwood City Police officers will be investigating and tracking down any individuals shooting guns into the air. Arrests will be made when possible and violators will be booked at San Mateo County Jail.

The Department's goal in using the "Shot Spotter" system, increased patrols, and public information is to reduce or eliminate the incidence of gunfire in celebration of New Years Eve. The public is asked to use the gunshot hotline, celebrate without the use of firearms, and to have a safe and happy New Years Eve.

Visit Redwood City’s award-winning website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and local business. Subscribe to Redwood City’s email newsletter and other City documents by visiting www.redwoodcity.org/egov.

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Contact:
Officer Vic Artiga
Redwood City Police Department
(650) 780-7104