The Dallas Police Department would like for everyone to have a safe and happy new year, but remember, public safety is our number one concern. We must remind everyone that discharging a firearm in the city limits is not only illegal, it is also very dangerous.

On New Year’s Eve 2018 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., the communications division received 269 calls for police regarding fire work disturbances. During the same hours, 917 random gunfire calls were received. That was a little over 11 hundred calls in a 4-hour time span. This rise in call volume strained the system and limited public safety resources.

Please do not fire a gun into the air to ring in the New Year because what goes up, must come down. This offense is punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail. In some cases, the charge of deadly conduct could be filed. The punishment can range from 2 – 10 years in jail and up two a $10,000 fine.

Also, it is illegal to use or possess fireworks in the Dallas city limits. If you are caught, you could be fined up to $2,000. Please call 9-1-1 or download the  iWatchDallas app on your cellphone to report these activities to police.

Again, have a SAFE and Happy New Year!