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
