The Santa Monica Police Department, which previously announced it would hold a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on New Year’s Eve, is reminding residents it is illegal to discharge firearms into the air as part of NYE celebrations.
SMPD Sgt. Richard Lewis said the department is urging the community for its continued support in ensuring another safe New Year’s Eve 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,” Lewis said. “It is 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. If arrested, your bail will be $35,000.”
Lewis said if you witness someone firing a gun, call 911 and report it.
“Give the 911 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.”
