Richmond Police Bring Back Operation Safe Summer

Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Following a string of shootings that resulted in the deaths of four teens, the Richmond Police Department is bringing back Operation Safe Summer on Friday.

The program traditionally begins in June, but it will begin early this year – on Friday, April 19 – as an effort police say is intended to “suppress violent crime and increase public safety throughout Richmond.”

As part of the program, the department will use grant funding from the American Rescue Plan to provide free gun safes for families to store their firearms at home. Gun safes can be requested by calling 804-516-0451.

Summer programs will be offered to children at a low or no cost. Additionally, the “Late Night Gym” will return in September on Memorial Day weekend and will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings through Labor Day weekend.

Virginia State Police will also be supporting officers throughout the city, paying special attention to identified “hot spots” for gun violence.