Free Firearm Safety Kits Handed Out To Prevent Crime

RACINE, WI— The Racine Police Department will distribute free firearm safety kits this week amid gun violence concerns.

While Part I Crime in the City of Racine is currently at a 55-year low, the increase in shots fired and weapons violation complaints during the COVID-19 crisis threatens the significant crime reduction progress achieved to date, according to Racine police.

Additionally, the increase in firearms being procured on behalf of convicted felons (through illegal straw purchases) further threatens public safety.

In response to the concerns, beginning Wednesday October 7, 2020 and continuing while supplies last, in partnership with Project ChildSafe, the Racine Police Department will distribute the kits. All safety kits include a cable-style gun lock and safety instruction brochure. Additional safety tips and resources are available online through the Project ChildSafe Resource Library.

Year-to-date in 2020, 117 firearms have been recovered and inventoried by Racine Police Department personnel. Since 2004, a total of 2,739 firearms were recovered during traffic stops, the execution of search warrants and other dangerous calls for service. Included among the most recent weapons recovered have been multiple assault-styled weapons, most recently an AK 47 styled assault rifle was recovered on August 9, 2020 during an attempted homicide investigation.

While traditionally rare in nature, the recovery of similar assault-style weapons has increased as of late. The high capacity magazines and armor piercing ballistic capability of such weapons presents a threat to law enforcement personnel and citizens alike, according to a media release from the police department.

To obtain free ChildSafe Gun Lock Kits, please visit Richard V. Polzin COP Office located at 1900 16th Street on Friday, October 9, from 10 a.m. until Noon and from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m., while supplies last.

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