Victim Identified in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in Saturday night’s homicide as Vernon Pope Jr., 51, of Richmond.

Saturday night at approximately 6:33 p.m., Richmond Police responded to the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Pope, in an apartment down and unresponsive from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Arrest Made in Fatal Hit and Run

The Richmond Police Department has made an arrest in this morning’s fatal hit and run that occurred on Hull Street Road.

At approximately 2:13 p.m., officers were called to the 5500 block of Hull Street Road for the report of a hit and run. Officers arrived and found an adult male pedestrian down and unresponsive in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The RPD Special Operations Division Crash Team was called to the scene and investigated. Investigators gathered information and determined a vehicle traveling eastbound struck the pedestrian in the roadway and the driver of the vehicle left the scene. A description of a suspect vehicle was broadcast to officers and the suspect vehicle was located nearby.

Edin Barrera Reynozo, 34, of Richmond, was arrested and has been charged with felony hit and run and driving under the influence. Other charges are pending. His booking photo is attached.

Information about the victim is not yet available for release.

Anyone with further information about this hit and run is asked to call Crash Team Investigator D. Olson at (804) 646-1664 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Midlothian Turnpike Death Investigation

At approximately 6:33 p.m., officers were called to the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male in an apartment down and unresponsive from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Homicide Suspect Arrested, Fentanyl and Firearms Seize

Detectives with the Richmond Police Special Investigations Division, and with the Virginia State Police, arrested a homicide suspect and seized fentanyl, firearms and cash after executing a search warrant last night in Richmond.

Tod’Quan Jones, 21, of Richmond, was arrested and charged with possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, weapons violations, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Other charges are pending. A booking photo of Jones and a photo of the seized items is attached.

Jones is a suspect in the shooting homicide of Keyron Haskins on June 15, 2021 in the 2300 block of Bethel Street.

Seized items included over two pounds of fentanyl and assault-style weapons.

“This dangerous individual posed a threat to everyone in the city and the region – and thanks to the excellent work by RPD detectives and the Virginia State Police – he is now in custody,” said RPD Chief Gerald M. Smith. “Fentanyl is a deadly narcotic responsible for many overdose deaths – and this enormous amount of the drug is now no longer on the streets and a threat to our community.”

MEDIA: Major Ronnie Armstead is available for interviews this afternoon.

Arrest Made in Hit and Run of RPD Officer

Warning Against Aggressive Driving 

The Richmond Police Department’s Hit and Run Unit has made an arrest in the hit and run of a police officer that occurred in the 1300 block of West Broad Street on Monday, January 24 at 5:13 p.m.

Jacob Terry McClung, 22 year old male, of Prince George, Virginia has been charged with: (booking photo below)

• Felony hit and run
• Felony elude
• Reckless driving
• Numerous traffic offenses

McClung is currently being held without bond at the Richmond Justice Center.

Just after 5 p.m., Monday, Richmond Police responded to a report of aggressive driving by a group of motorcycles on West Broad Street.  Once on scene, officers attempted to stop the motorcycles, which fled from the police vehicles.  While fleeing, one of the motorcycles struck a uniformed police officer.  The officer was transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries and was released that evening.

The motorcycle driver left the scene of the crash on foot.  Richmond Police Department Detectives with the Hit and Run Unit identified the driver of the motorcycle involved in the crash. The driver was taken into custody on Thursday, January 26 in Hopewell, Virginia by members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

“We are fortunate that no one died in this incident”, said Chief of Police Gerald M. Smith. “Joy riding and endangering the lives of others by reckless driving on the city streets of Richmond will not be tolerated. There are serious charges associated with this behavior and you will be charged appropriately”.

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call RPD Hit and Run Detective Drago at (804) 646-1369 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 with anonymous tips.

Suspect Sought in Liquor Store Burglary

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in the photos and video who burgled a liquor store last week.

Friday at approximately 5:15 a.m., the male suspect broke the glass portion of a door at the ABC store in the 00 block of North Thompson Street. The individual entered the store and stole several bottles of liquor, including tequila and cognac. As seen in the video, he stumbled over a bottle of tequila he had placed on the floor as he was departing. The video can be seen here:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/sb9loblx55kc2r0/Suspect%20in%20Liquor%20Burglary.mp4?dl=0

Anyone with information about the identity of this suspect is asked to call Third Precinct Detective H. Truong at (804) 646-1067 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Officer Struck by Motorcycle as Part of Group Traveling on West Broad Street

This evening, at approximately 5:04p.m., Richmond Police officers responded to the report of aggressive driving by a group of motorcycles near the intersection of Broad and Terminal. Once on scene, the officer began directing traffic and at approximately 5:13p.m., in the 1300 block of West Broad Street, the officer was struck head on by a motorcycle within the pack.

The driver left the scene and the officer was transported to a local hospital by an RPD officer where he is now being evaluated and treated for a head injury.

The driver of one of the motorcycles traveling within the group, an adult male, was later stopped in Henrico then transported back to Richmond where he is currently being detained and questioned with traffic related charges pending.

Statement by Mayor Levar Stoney:
This brave officer put himself in harm’s way to protect the residents of our city. This incident is a reminder of the challenges our first responders face every day and the sacrifices they are willing to make to serve and protect us.

I am grateful that the officer survived this potentially deadly encounter and ask you to join me in wishing him a speedy recovery from his injuries.

Statement by Richmond Police Chief, Gerald M. Smith:
What happened this evening was a despicable and cowardly act that will not be tolerated. Our RPD family stands with this officer and his family. We are grateful for the way our men and women work every day to protect this community, despite the risks they face.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call RPD Detective V. Griffith at (804) 646-1718 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Robbery Arrest from In-Person Transaction, Safe Exchange Zones Provided for Public Safety

Use Caution When Meeting for Transactions

At approximately 6:50 p.m. last Friday, officers were called to the 1800 block of Mansion Avenue for the report of an armed person. Upon arrival officers determined that a robbery had taken place. A family reported they arrived to the location to buy an iPhone 11 as listed on Facebook Marketplace when they were robbed by an armed male who stole their mobile phone and cash. There were no injuries. First Precinct detectives investigated and, with the assistance of Second Precinct officers, quickly made an arrest.

Completing online transactions with unknown parties in person can present security challenges. Every day, people within our community are buying, selling or swapping items through the use of websites such as LetGo, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. While the vast majority of those offline exchanges are completed without incident, internet exchange-related activities can present the potential for threats including theft, robbery and other violent crimes.

For the safety of residents within our community, the Richmond Police Department is asking residents to exercise caution when initiating in-person meetings from online activity, to heed safety tips, and to consider using “Safe Exchange Zones” for completing transactions.

RPD safe exchange zones are marked areas in the parking lots of Second Precinct, 177 E. Belt Blvd. and Fourth Precinct, 2219 Chamberlayne Ave., with security cameras positioned in the parking lot of each building. Safe exchange zones should be considered when meeting unknown persons for transactions. These areas are recorded around the clock and this video is beneficial to detectives should a criminal investigation become necessary.

RPD recommends these safety tips:

• Stay alert;
• Use a Safe Exchange Zone;
• Meet during the daytime, not at night;
• Bring someone with you to the exchange, and;
• Meet in a public place with other people nearby.

 

Media outlets: Lt. Brereton of RPD First precinct is available for interviews. Please contact for availability.

Victim Identified in Jahnke Road Homicide

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in last week’s homicide as Kavon Gallishaw, 21, of Richmond.

At approximately 12:41 p.m., January 18, officers were called to Glenway Drive / German School Road for the report of a crash with injury / shooting. RPD officers located an adult male, Gallishaw, inside of a vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound.  He was the sole occupant. He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Detectives have determined that the shooting occurred in the 6400 block of Jahnke Road.

Detectives are looking for an older model, tan or gold, four door sedan with plastic covering the back window and the back passenger side window. The vehicle was last seen leaving the area at a high-rate of speed southbound on Jahnke Road during this incident. Photo of the vehicle is attached.

Anyone with information about this Homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective Marshall Young at (804) 646-3926 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Person of interest in Multiple Commercial Robberies

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in these photos who is a person of interest in two commercial robberies that occurred on Saturday, January 15.

At approximately 8:10 p.m., January 15, officers responded to the 300 block of Cowardin Avenue for the report of a commercial robbery. Officers made contact with the employee who stated that the suspect entered the business and displayed a firearm and demanded money. The suspect fled on foot in an unknown direction.

At approximately 8:30 p.m., on the same day, officers responded to the 5000 block of Forest Hill Avenue for another commercial robbery. Officers spoke to the employee, who stated that the suspect entered the business and displayed a firearm, demanding cash. The suspect fled on foot in an unknown direction.

The same suspect was seen on video surveillance wearing the same clothing in both robberies. The suspect was last seen wearing a black coat, black mask, gray pants and black shoes.

Anyone who may have been in the area during these robberies, or has information about the identity of this individual is asked to call Third Precinct Detective M. Sacksteder at (804) 646-1068 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Report to the Community – Fourth Quarter/End of Year Crime Briefing

Chief Gerald Smith to Provide Update and Message to the Community

WHAT: Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith to provide 2021 Fourth Quarter and End of Year Report to the Community including an overview of crime in Richmond during the fourth quarter of 2021, trends with a year-end snap shot, and an update on Operation Red Ball; a special operation fielded in November of 2021, targeting violent criminals and aimed at taking firearms off the streets.

Gain an understanding of how the public can play a role in combating crime in our community in 2022.

WHEN:  11 a.m., Friday, January 21, 2022

WHERE: Richmond Police Headquarters, FOCUS Room (200 W. Grace St.)

Media, please sign in upon arrival.

A face mask in required upon entering the building and during the briefing.

The public is invited to watch Chief Smith’s presentation live on RPD’s Facebook page: facebook.com/richmondpolice.

Following the briefing, the presentation can be accessed through www.rva.gov/police.

Should inclement weather prevent this briefing from taking place on this date, we will update you.

Jahnke Road Death Investigation

Today at approximately 12:41 p.m., officers were called to Glenway Drive / German School Road for the report of a crash with injury / shooting. RPD officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound inside a private vehicle and the sole occupant. He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Detectives have determined that the shooting occurred in the 6400 block of Jahnke Road.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective Marshall Young at (804) 646-3926 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Victim Identified in West Grace Street Homicide / Arrest Made

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in yesterday’s homicide as Rupert Haughton, 36, of Richmond.

Yesterday at approximately 1:17 p.m., officers were called to the 2200 block of West Grace Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Haughton, down and unresponsive from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives have arrested Zakell Johnson, 27, of Richmond and charged him with murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. His booking photo is attached.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective M. Godwin at (804) 646-5533 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

West Grace Street Death Investigation

Today at approximately 1:18 p.m., officers were called to the 2200 block of West Grace Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male down and unresponsive from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers have an adult male detained and are not currently looking for any other suspects.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective M. Godwin at (804) 646-5533 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Ten Rescued from Motel Fire by Richmond Police

Quick Action and Decision Making by RPD Officers Prevent Fire Tragedy

Friday evening, January 7, at approximately 5:30 p.m., Richmond Police Officers from the Third Precinct FMT rescued ten people from a motel fire that began to spread rapidly from floor to floor inside the Richmond Inn located at 6346 Midlothian Turnpike.

Officers Frazer and Gibson were actively seeking a wanted party near the Richmond Inn and came upon a fire in the rear of the motel that had not yet fully engulfed the area. Both Officers immediately responded by breaching the door to the room that was on fire and evacuated guests.

As the fire jumped to the second floor of the motel, officers breached multiple entry ways and proceeded to rescue eight to 10 guests from motel rooms that were filling with smoke and in the path of the fire, sending an emergency call for emergency resources and extra patrol support.

Once on scene with Richmond Fire, the officers proceeded to assist in breeching additional doors within the motel to fully evacuate all guests. Officer Frazer was treated on scene for minor smoke inhalation and none of the evacuated occupants were injured or required medical attention.

These officers embody the RPD mission; to serve our public through the unwavering protection of our community and its residents.

“The officers’ response to this incident exemplifies our highest ideals and commitment to keep our community safe”, said Police Chief Gerald M. Smith. “The quick thinking and bravery exhibited by these officers epitomizes the values of the Richmond Police Department.”

RPD recognizes the commitment and potentially lifesaving efforts of Officers Frazer and Gibson. We extend our gratitude and thank you for your dedication to faithfully serving our city.

 

MLK Day/Lobby Day 2022 Traffic and Safety Advisory

The Richmond Police Department is dedicated and committed to ensuring public safety before, during, and after Lobby Day 2022. In collaboration with other state and local agencies the Department will work to ensure a safe environment for all participants and asks for the public to be aware of street closures, no parking zones and the law pertaining to carrying firearms on Capitol grounds.

In accordance with Virginia law, it is unlawful for a person to carry any firearm or explosive material within the Capitol of Virginia, Capitol Square and the adjacent surrounding area. Signs prohibiting firearms will be placed throughout the city to inform those who may gather.

Traffic flow in the areas will be impacted starting at 5 a.m. on Monday, January 17, and towing will be enforced within the No Parking Zones. If you live or work in the area surrounding Capitol Square and downtown, you should expect disruptions to your usual routines and plan accordingly. Maps of the closures are attached.

No Parking Zones between the hours of 5 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Towing will be enforced in these areas starting at 5 a.m. Monday, January 17, 2022

• E. Broad Street (Both Sides) between N. 5th & N. 14th Street
• N. 8th Street (Both Sides) between E. Broad & Main Street
• N. 9th Street (Both Sides) between E. Broad & Main Street
• E. Grace Street (Both Sides) between N. 8th & 9th Street
• E. Franklin Street (Both Sides) between N. 8th & 9th Street
• E. Main Street (Both Sides) between N. 8th & 14th Street
• N. 12th Street (Both Sides) between E. Main & Bank Street
• N. 14th Street (Both Sides) between E. Broad & Main Street

Street closures for Monday, January 17, 2022 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• 900-1300 Blk. E. Main Street between N. 9th & 14th Street
• 00-200 Blk. N. 9th Street between E. Main & Broad Street
• 800 Blk. E. Franklin Street between N. 8th & 9th Street
• 800 Blk. E. Grace Street between N. 8th & 9th Street
• Bank Street between 12th & 14th Street
• S. 10th Street between E. Main & Cary Street
• S. 12th Street between E. Main & Cary Street
• S. 13th Street between E. Main & Cary Street

Information is subject to change and additional streets may be temporarily closed as needed. Please follow RPD on Twitter at @RichmondPolice.

Ref: Virginia Code 18.2-283.2

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title18.2/chapter7/section18.2-283.2/

Suspects Sought in Armed Commercial Robbery

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the three individuals in the photos who are suspects in an armed commercial robbery that occurred yesterday in the 5300 block of Hull Street Road.

Yesterday at approximately 2:50 p.m. an employee of a business reported the three adult males in the photos brandished a firearm and a knife and robbed the business of cash. They fled on foot. There were no injuries.

Anyone with information about the identity of these suspects is asked to call Second Precinct Detective J. Myers at (804) 646-8152 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Person of interest in Commercial Robbery

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in these photos who is a person of interest in a commercial robbery that occurred on Wednesday in the 2800 block of West Broad Street.

At approximately 7:05 p.m., January 5, officers responded to the 2800 block of West Broad Street for the report of a commercial robbery. Officers made contact with the employee who stated that the suspect entered the business and displayed a firearm and demanded money. The suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The suspect is approximately 5 foot 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds, last seen wearing a black bubble coat, one glove on his right hand, and a black hoodie.

Anyone who may have been in the area during this robbery, or has information about the identity of this individual is asked to call Third Precinct Detective M. Sacksteder at (804) 646-1068 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Virginia Gubernatorial Inauguration Event 2022 Traffic Advisory

January 11, 2022

 

Virginia Gubernatorial Inauguration Event 2022 Traffic Advisory

 

The Commonwealth's 74th governor will be inaugurated during a ceremony and parade this Saturday, January 15, culminating in Virginia’s Capitol Square. There will be several street closures and “No Parking” zones beginning Saturday at 5 a.m., at which time towing will be enforced.

 

Virginia Gubernatorial Inauguration Event 2022 (No Parking & Street Closures)

Saturday, January 15th (5:00 AM to 4:00 PM)

 

·       Grace Street between Belvidere & N. 9th Street

·       N. Henry between W. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. Monroe between W. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. Madison between W. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. Jefferson between W. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. Adams between W. Main & Broad Street

·       N. Foushee between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 1st Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 2nd Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 3rd Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 4th Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 5th Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 6th Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 7th Street between E. Main & Broad Street

·       N. 8th Street between E. Franklin & Broad Street

·       N. 9th Street between E. Main & Broad Street

·       N. 10th Street between Bank & E. Main Street

·       N. 12th Street between Bank & E. Main Street

     ·       Governor Street between E. Broad & Bank Street

·       N. 10th Street between E. Broad & Capital Street

·       N. 11th Street between E. Broad & Capital Street

·       Bank Street between N. 9th & Governor Street

·       E. Franklin Street between. 6th & 9th Street 

 

Ride share accessibility:

 

Ride share designated drop-off and pick-up will be available at the Pulse station located in the 800 block of East Broad Street and is accessible on the North side of the street.  

 

Information is subject to change. Please follow RPD on Twitter at @RichmondPolice.

 

Firearms, Grenade Launcher Seized, Arrests Made

Richmond Police detectives, assigned to a First Precinct specialty unit designed to combat violent crime, made four arrests in one incident last night while seizing narcotics and firearms. The seizures included semi-automatic weapons and a grenade launcher. An image of the seized items is below.

Two detectives observed suspicious activity in the Blackwell neighborhood which included a possible drug deal. The detectives detained four individuals and conducted an investigation which revealed narcotics, cash and firearms, including the grenade launcher.

Detectives have not yet released booking information or photos for the four adult males due to the scope of the ongoing investigation. Two suspects are from North Chesterfield, one is from Chester and one from Richmond. Charges include carrying a concealed weapon, possession of an extended magazine, possession with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm with narcotics, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

“Richmond Police officers and detectives are working with tireless determination to patrol all corners of the city, conduct investigations, make arrests and drive down incidents of violent crime,” said RPD Chief Gerald M. Smith. “With this excellent work, detectives with the First Precinct Focus Mission Team have helped to make Richmond a safer city. We can all do our part. If you know anyone who is illegally possessing a firearm – call the GUN250 program at (804) 780-1000 and you can earn a reward of up to $1,000.”

Person of interest in Armed Robbery and Commercial Robbery

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in these photos who is a person of interest in an armed robbery and commercial robbery that occurred yesterday in the 4400 block of West Broad Street.

Yesterday at approximately 11:25 p.m. officers responded to the 4400 block of West Broad Street for the report of an armed robbery and commercial robbery. Officers made contact with the clerk and victims inside the business. The employee and victims stated that the suspect entered the business and approached the victims, displayed a firearm and demanded money. The suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The suspect is approximately 5 foot 10 inches tall, last seen wearing a black coat, gray hoodie, ripped jeans and white sneakers.

Anyone with information about the identity of this individual is asked to call Third Precinct Detective M. Sacksteder at (804) 646-1068 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

 

Richmond Police Seize 12 Illegal Firearms and Make 10 Arrests on New Year’s Eve

RPD Operation Red Ball cracks down on potential violent offenders in Richmond.

Richmond Police seized 12 firearms while making arrests on various charges in separate incidents on New Year’s Eve. Seizures included multiple handguns, AR-style rifles and narcotics which led to the arrest of 10 individuals on December 31, 2021. The seizures took place at various locations across the city including Creighton Court, Hillside Court, the 3800 block of Walmsley Boulevard, Woodland Crossing and Whitcomb Court. Charges include carrying a concealed weapon, reckless handling of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possessing a firearm while in the possession of narcotics.

The seizures and arrests come as part of a focus to crack down on violent offenders and those illegally possessing firearms in the city of Richmond in a program called “Operation Red Ball”. The operation is a focused task force of Richmond Police detectives and officers from several precincts working together to preempt violence in our city and was mobilized following the homicides of two children in September on Nine Mile Road. The operation will continue into 2022.

Cash rewards up to $1,000 are paid to members of the community who provide tips that result in the seizure of illegally-held weapons and/or an arrest through the GUN250 program of Crime Stoppers. GUN250 was created to help keep illegally-held firearms off the streets and out of the hands of criminals.

Information provided by the community is invaluable when it comes to preventing violent crime and keeping our community safe. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.

Attention Media: Major Ronnie Armstead is available to speak virtually about the seizures and Operation Red Ball and how the community can play a part in preventing violent crime.

For information contact: Tracy Walker, RPD Public Affairs

(804) 432-9549