VPD sends holiday message to residents

Published 5:29 pm Monday, December 23, 2024

The Vicksburg Police Department is reaching out to residents this holiday season, reminding Vicksburgers to be safe and practice good judgement during the Christmas season.

“The holidays are a time for celebration, but we must ensure they’re safe for everyone in our community,” Chief of Police Penny Jones said. “Recently, the City of Vicksburg passed an ordinance changing penalties for certain firearm violations. Offenders now face no less than 30 days and up to 12 months in jail. This includes individuals caught shooting guns into the air, which remains a reckless and dangerous act.”

Jones said the stiffer penalties are meant to help deter gun-related crimes that have become more prevalent in the River City in recent months.

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“We understand frustrations about reports of shots fired in the community,” she said. “It’s important to note that while officers work tirelessly to investigate, we often face challenges without witnesses or evidence. If you don’t see who is shooting, we likely won’t either unless we’re on the scene. This is where community cooperation becomes critical.” 

Jones said anyone who witnesses a violation involving a gun has the following options available:  

  • Take a video or photo if it’s safe to do so.
  • Report it anonymously through Crime Stoppers or directly to the police.

“We need your help to hold offenders accountable,” Jones said. “Together, we can create a safer Vicksburg.”

In her holiday message, Jones also focused on the problem of crime and violence among Vickburg’s youth.

“Crime trends have changed significantly over the past year,” she said. “We’re seeing more young people gaining access to firearms, leading to increased incidents of random gunfire. While police are making arrests, many suspects are quickly released due to decisions outside of our control, such as bond settings.”

This holiday season, Jones said VPD urges everyone to:

  • Not shoot guns into the air. It’s not just a holiday celebration — it’s illegal and dangerous, she said.
  • Work with VPD to “take our community back”: By reporting what you see, capturing evidence, and standing together, we can make Vicksburg safer, Jones added.

“As your Police chief, I want to assure you that our officers are committed to doing their best with the resources available. We take great pride in serving the citizens of Vicksburg, and we share in your frustrations when it comes to reducing crime.

“Let’s make this holiday season peaceful, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Remember: If you see something, say something. Together, we can make a difference. (We are) wishing you and your family a safe holiday season.”