RMPD Invests To Curb NYE Celebratory Gunfire

Rocky Mount, N.C. – Celebratory gunfire is a common problem in many cities, particularly on New Year's Eve. Sadly, it often has tragic results when innocent people are hit by stray bullets and are injured or killed. 

Unfortunately, the reality is that any bullet discharged from a gun, even into the sky, must land somewhere, and when it does, the risk of injury or death is significant.

The Rocky Mount Police Department is committed to a policy of zero tolerance of illegal gun use and to combating gun violence in this community. Our mission is to protect the quality of life of all residents by creating an environment of enhanced safety and security.

During the upcoming holiday, the police department will deploy patrol officers in specific areas of the city with the highest amount of illegal celebratory gunfire activity on New Year's Eve last year. Additionally, officers will communicate with residents in those areas before the holiday to reinforce city policies around celebratory gunfire.

During the New Year's Eve holiday, officers will respond to all ShotSpotter activations throughout the city, particularly in those hotspot areas. They will charge anyone violating the city policy of discharging a firearm within city limits. 

In addition, as a standard, officers will be deployed throughout the city to maintain the peace, prevent crime and violence, and arrest drunk drivers.

The Rocky Mount Police Department utilizes the ShotSpotter solution to help identify, locate and deter gun violence while also helping the agency gather gunfire intelligence and data to fight crime and violence proactively.

We will also utilize FUSUS Real-Time Crime Center to aid us in identifying individuals violating state laws and Rocky Mount city ordinances. 

Finally, we wish everyone a happy and safe News Year's