In light of the incidents in El Paso and Dayton, the Danville Police Department wants our citizens to know that we stand ready to respond to any critical incident. Additionally, we would like to encourage our community to partner with us to reduce violent crime. Here are two ways that you can directly and positively impact our violent crime reduction efforts:
First, report suspicious behavior before a crime takes place. As part of the national campaign, “If You See Something, Say Something,” the Department of Homeland Security reminds all of us that “by being alert and reporting suspicious activity to your local law enforcement, you can protect your family, neighbors, and community.” Citizens can report suspicious behavior to our Gang and Violent Crime tipline through Crimestoppers at 434-793-0000 or by calling 911. This allows our officers and investigators to potentially interdict a criminal act.
Second, citizens can help reduce unlawful access to firearms by safely storing them. Over 100 firearms were reported stolen in the city last year. Many of these firearms were left unsecured in the owner’s parked car. Stolen firearms increase the opportunity for violent offenders to commit criminal acts. The Department encourages responsible gun ownership through the use of gun locks, gun safes, and by not leaving a firearm unsecured, particularly in a car.
Join us tonight at your community event for National Night Out as we continue our efforts to build bridges that will bring us closer together. Opening ceremonies will be held at 5 p.m. at the Police Department’s Third Avenue site.