The FOX 8 I-Team has discovered a surge in support for cities to ban reckless gunfire during holidays such as July 4th.
It’s highly likely that during the midnight hour on July 4th and New Year’s Eve, you may hear the sound of gunfire as people celebrate by shooting their guns in the air.
When the I-Team exposed that Cleveland police are unable to respond to most calls, including those where neighbors are recklessly shooting firearms during holiday celebrations, even when there is video evidence, action was taken.
There is a growing movement to bring about a change in this regard.
In the early hours of the new year, Cleveland Police received a staggering 101 calls reporting shots fired. However, upon further investigation, it was discovered that no charges were filed for the use of weapons or gunfire.
As officers approach the scene, gunshots can be heard in the background in a police body camera video. However, one of the officers informs a resident that they are unable to take any action regarding someone firing a gun on their own property. The resident expresses surprise at this response with a simple, “Wow.”
The current Ohio law permits individuals to discharge a firearm on their private property. However, a new proposed state law is giving municipalities the opportunity to alter this regulation according to their preferences.
State Representative Casey Weinstein emphasized the importance of ensuring everyone’s safety while celebrating July 4th. He stated, “We want people to enjoy the festivities, but we also want to ensure that everyone feels secure.”
State Rep. Darnell Brewer is collaborating with Weinstein to promote a bill.
Weinstein expressed his concern about the incident, stating that it is a form of gun violence and can cause significant trauma to the affected individuals. He further emphasized that such occurrences should never take place in any community in Ohio.
Upon conducting our research, we came across a state law and a city of Cleveland law that prohibits the reckless discharge of a firearm. However, upon further examination, we discovered that both laws contain provisions that permit the use of firearms on one’s own property.
Individual towns may soon have the authority to prohibit the discharge of firearms on private property if a proposed law is passed.
Weinstein, a former city councilman, emphasized the significance of local control in our legal system. “I think it’s an incredibly important part of our law,” he stated.
At present, the House committee is reviewing the proposed bill. The lawmakers who initiated it are working hard to garner statewide support, with the aim of getting it passed before the year’s end.
At present, the Cleveland police are urging the public to refrain from celebrating through gunfire.
Sgt. Freddy Diaz expressed his concern over the dangerous act of firing firearms in the air. He emphasized that a single round discharged upwards could result in grave injuries or even death. Diaz urged the public to act responsibly and refrain from indulging in such reckless behavior.
As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Day, chaos erupted as heard from a 911 caller who reported, “Everybody’s on the floor. Sounds like a war zone.”
The fight to put an end to holiday gunfire is now in full swing.
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