ShotSpotter to help Rocky Mount police zero in on 'celebratory gunfire' New Year's Eve

As communities ramp up for New Year's Eve, police are preparing to keep the community safe from the dangers of celebratory gunfire. This year, ShotSpotter technology may help officers more quickly and accurately find incidents of celebratory gunfire around Rocky Mount.

Rocky Mount police are warning against the dangers of celebratory gunfire. In a recent post on social media, they shared how they plan to keep the public safe this year with heightened patrols.

"Every year, citizens around the country are injured or killed due to celebratory gunfire," said Ryan Hepler, police captain. "We will have a zero tolerance approach to all outdoor gunfire violations that occur within the city limits."

Officers will use ShotSpotter technology to respond to gunshot incidents.

This year, the Rocky Mount Police Department will:

• Deploy extra patrol officers to high-activity areas based on previous data on New Year’s Eve.
• Maintain a strong police presence throughout Rocky Mount by assigning extra officers to different areas.
• Respond promptly to shots fired and calls throughout the city.
• Engage with residents in these areas to reinforce city ordinances against celebratory gunfire.

"The Rocky Mount Police Department aims to curb celebratory gunfire, a dangerous issue that can cause serious harm or even death to innocent people," the department wrote on social media.