Contact Information:

Meg Matthews

Public Relations Manager

mmatthews@littlerock.gov

(501) 804-4822

Press Release

(July 3, 2012)

The Little Rock Police Department is asking the public to refrain from shooting guns into the air while celebrating the 4^th of July. LRPD has launched “Operation Safe 4^th,” an educational and suppression program that aims to reduce random gunfire that occurs on this holiday.

LRPD will be using increased police patrols throughout the city. Please note that celebrating the 4^th of July by shooting a gun into the air is not only illegal, it can hurt or kill someone, damage property and get you arrested. Anyone firing a weapon in the air can be charged with a serious crime if someone is injured.

Starting July 3^rd at 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m. July 4^th you can report any suspected incidents of gunfire by calling 311. If someone is injured call 911. Officers will be investigating and pursuing any individuals suspected of shooting guns in the air.

Reckless discharge of a firearm in the City of Little Rock is illegal. LRPD hopes that through increased public awareness, we can see a significant decrease in calls of random gunfire.

We would also like to remind everyone that fireworks are illegal in the City of Little Rock. Shooting, possessing, or selling fireworks is a violation that can result in a citation. You can also report fireworks violations to 311. Please enjoy some of the public displays and leave fireworks to the professionals.