OMAHA, Nebraska - The Omaha Police Department will enforce the reduction of New Year’s Eve celebratory gunfire by using ShotSpotter Gunfire Data and Alerts. Celebratory gunfire remains a big problem in many cities, particularly on New Year’s Eve.Sadly, it often has tragic results when innocent people are hit by the bullets.The reality is that any bullet discharged from a gun, even into the sky, must land somewhere, and when it does, there's a significant risk of injury or death.
The police department will be deploying patrol officers in specific areas of the city that have the highest amount of illegal gun and fireworks activity as recorded by ShotSpotter on New Year’s Eve last year. Officers will respond to all ShotSpotter activations throughout the city, and particularly in those areas, and will arrest anyone caught discharging a firearm in public.As normal, officers will be deployed throughout the city to maintain the peace, prevent crime and violence, and arrest drunk drivers.
The Omaha Police Department would like to remind everyone of the fireworks laws and ordinances applicable in Omaha. Section 20-320 of the Omaha Municipal Code allows for the possession and use of “consumer fireworks” as described below:
“Consumer Fireworks” are defined by Nebraska State Statute, Sec. 28-1241.
“Consumer Fireworks” may be possessed, used, or discharged in Omaha by persons:·16 years of age and older;
·Between 12 years of age and 15 years of age, if in the immediate presence of and under the direct supervision of an adult age 19 years or older.
“Consumer Fireworks” may be USED in Omaha from 5:00 p.m. on December 31 through 1:00 a.m. on January 1.
• The sale and use of flying lanterns is prohibited in the State of Nebraska.
• Those found in violation of this Ordinance (Section 20-320) risk being cited for a criminal violation, and may be subject to a fine, for each conviction, as follows:
·First offense: a fine of $300.00
·Second offense: a fine of $400.00
·Third and subsequent offenses: a fine of $500.00 for each separate conviction.
Fireworks complaints that are in progress should be directed to 402-444-5802. This is a non-emergency number that will allow complaints to be dispatched to officers on the street and keep 911 lines open for emergencies. 911 should be called if there is immediate danger to life safety or property due to fireworks use.