The Clarksdale Police Department is reminding people that firing a gun into the air is not only dangerous to people and property, it is also against the law.
Police Chief Robbie Linley told the Clarksdale Board of Mayor and Commissioners Monday that firing a gun of any type in the city limits of Clarksdale is illegal. He also told commissioners innocent people can and have been hurt by random bullets shot into the air.
“What goes up has got to come down,” said Chief Linley. “Discharging a firearm is against city ordinances and most importantly it is a safety issue.”
Clarksdale’s ordinances says discharging a firearm can result in charges of exhibiting a deadly weapon that carries up to a $1,000 fine, or reckless endangerment that can result in a $5,000 fine and time in jail. The shooter can also be charged with disturbing the peace, a misdemeanor that can result in a $500 fine.
Shooting a high-powered rifle or semi-automatic rifle multiple times can result is stiffer penalties.
If it can be determined that someone has been hurt by a bullet fired by a gun you own, you can be charged with aggravated assault that carries up to a 20-year sentence and $10,000 fine.
Brandishing a weapon in the presence of a police officer is a felony and considered a danger to officers.
A man was arrested in Fort Smith, Arkansas on Christmas Eve for shooting a gun into the air.
Police observed Brandon Espinoza, 25, shoot a gun into the air before attempting to flee the scene in a black Ford F-150.
A Glock 9mm handgun and a spent shell casing were at the scene, which linked Espinoza to the discharge of the firearm.
The Memphis Police Department received over 600 calls of shots fired on New Year’s Eve 2023.
Chief Linley also pointed out bullets pierce roofs around town, causing leaks and damaging the interiors of building.
The Coahoma County Expo Center had a newly installed basketball floor ruined by bullet holes in the metal roof.
Churches, factories and businesses with flat roofs fare the worst.
The roof on the Clarksdale Press Register was pierced by several bullets last year and the damage was not discovered until it rained and water ran down a second story wall and into the Press Register office.
“This happens to people’s homes, too,” said Chief Linley. “It could easily happen to your home or the home of someone you know.”
Police urge the community to call them at 621-8156, or simply dial 911 to report gunfire. Citizens documenting reports of shots fired by their neighbors with police, can help authorities stop future incidents with a visit and warning.
