Every year, Marengo County E-911 dispatchers are flooded with calls from residents hearing gunfire in their neighborhoods. Police say it is a dangerous way to celebrate because what comes up must come down.

Police remind people that firing off a weapon within Demopolis can bring a criminal recklessness charge. They also say if you hear shots fired, move to a safe location, stay away from windows and doors and call police.

Demopolis Police Chief Tommie Reese sends the following message:

“As we close out a great year in Demopolis and usher in 2017 with a number of events the across city and neighboring communities, we want everyone to be safe.

The Demopolis Police Department encourages you to ring in the New Year with joy and laughter that comes with being in the companionship of family, friends and loved ones. With that in mind, responsible celebrations do not include firing a firearm in any direction. This dangerous and reckless behavior has a high probability of causing significant injury with sometimes fatal results.

We also encourage parents to be aware of the whereabouts of their children, and we caution parents against allowing their children to attend unsupervised parties that are advertised on social media. Oftentimes unsupervised parties that advertise on social media have attendees that are looking to cause mischief. Additionally, do not drink and drive – find a responsible designated driver to drive you to and from destinations.

The men and women of the Demopolis Police Department will have an increased presence across the city to ensure our city is safe. If you see any suspicious activity you are urged to call DPD by dialing 911. If the community and police can work together, we can make a difference and make our city safe!

We wish everyone a happy New Year and look forward to working with our community to make 2017 a productive, prosperous and safe year for all the citizens of Demopolis, Al. Happy New Year Demopolis!”