SCMPD's Operation G.R.I.P. Deemed a Success

By: Barbara Herring | WSAV-TV
Published: January 03, 2008

Authorities say extra patrols and community awareness helped make the first Savannah-Chatham Metro Police Operation G.R.I.P. successful.

Police Chief Michael Berkow initiated the Gunfire Reduction Interdiction Program to prevent injury, death, and property damage caused by stray bullets being fired into the air. We're told no injuries were reported from celebratory gunfire this year, but two revelers received minor injuries from falling fireworks.

Metro Police say they deployed an additional 70 officers to help keep the New Year's celebration safe. Those officers fanned out across the Savannah-Chatham area to focus on gunfire, illegal fireworks, roadway safety, and anti-crime efforts.

The operation, aimed at education and enforcement on celebratory gunfire, resulted in only two arrests for gun violations. Another 17 people went to jail for other various violations ranging from parole violations to DUI.

We're told, during their patrols, officers stopped two cars containing illegal firearms after responding to reports of shots being fired in the Downtown area. The traffic stops resulted in the seizure of two guns - including a sawed-off shotgun, along with 73 rounds of ammunition and a small amount of marijuana. Two men were also charged with firearm and drug possession violations.

The educational piece of the operation served to promote community awareness, resulting in 20 more reported incidence by citizens from the previous year. Officials tell us Metro officers were called to 104 reports of gunfire between 7 p.m. on Monday, December 31st and 3 a.m. Tuesday, January 1st, which is up from 84 calls during last year's New Year's celebration.

SCMPD's Operation G.R.I.P. Deemed a Success

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