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Sheriff's Office warns about celebratory shooting of guns, drunk driving ahead of New Year's Eve

Published  December 30, 2014 1:39pm CST
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office
FOX 6 Now Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke has issued a reminder to citizens about the dangers and penalties associated with the random, celebratory shooting of guns, and also, drunk driving. This, ahead of New Year's Eve.

The Sheriff's Office issued the following statement to FOX6 News:

On New Year’s Eve, it’s not uncommon for police to receive multiple reports of gunfire. Many people unlawfully shoot guns into the air as a way to bring in the New Year. This is dangerous, and it is illegal. The penalties for this reckless behavior are severe. If a bullet kills a person, a homicide suspect could face up to 25 years in prison.

  • A bullet fired into the air can climb up to two miles.  When it comes down, it can fall 300-700 feet per second.

  • Citizens shooting guns will be arrested and prosecuted.  Unfortunately, most don’t think of the consequences until it’s too late.


Deputies will be enforcing the Operation Drive Sober initiative.  If you will be drinking alcohol, make your transportation plan now.  Designate a sober driver, plan to call a cab, or take public transportation.  The Wisconsin Department of Transportation offers a free Drive Sober mobile app which includes a “Find-a-Ride” feature to locate nearby taxi and transit services.  The Drive Sober app can be downloaded by visiting zeroinwisconsin.gov. Milwaukee County Transit System is again partnering with Miller Lite to provide free bus rides on New Year’s Eve.