In the lead-up to New Year’s Eve, the Santa Monica Police Department is urging the community for its continued support in ensuring another safe celebration.
Each year throughout the country, as part of the New Year’s Eve celebration, many individuals discharge their firearms into the air, not realizing the potential consequences of their actions.
SMPD Sgt. Richard Lewis said it was illegal to negligently fire a gun within the city limits of Santa Monica.
“The negligent discharge of a firearm is a felony and punishable by imprisonment in state prison,” Lewis said. “If arrested, your bail will be $35,000.”
Lewis said if you witness someone firing a gun, call 9-1-1 and report it.
“Give the 9-1-1 dispatcher as much information as possible about the shooting,” he said. “If you only hear gunfire, call Santa Monica Police Dispatch at 310.458.8491 immediately.”
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com. You will remain completely anonymous and may be eligible for a reward, up to $1,000.00, if your information leads to an arrest and conviction.
Or, anonymous tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers by either calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org. To text an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers; please view their webpage for detailed instructions. If the information leads to an arrest, the tipster is eligible to receive a reward up to $1, 000.00.
