RPD: Operation Safe Summer hits the streets

The Richmond Police Department has launched Operation Safe Summer, a joint initiative to reduce violent crime and boost public safety across the city during the warmer months. Running through early September, the effort combines resources from local, state, and federal agencies and aligns with Chief Rick Edwards’ Hotspot strategy, which focuses law enforcement efforts on areas with high rates of gun violence.

Virginia State Police are providing additional patrols to support targeted enforcement in these Hotspot zones. At the federal level, agencies including the ATF, FBI, Department of Justice, and U.S. Marshals Service are partnering with RPD to identify and prosecute individuals driving violent crime.

Locally, Richmond’s Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney is working with RPD on investigations and prosecutions. Non-police partners like Richmond Community Mediators, the RPD Chaplain program, the Trauma Healing and Response Network, and Richmond Public Schools are also involved. The GVPI Steering Committee, coordinated by the Department of Justice Services, continues to operate the Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Hotline at (804) 646-5987.

Operation Safe Summer also emphasizes community engagement. RPD Community Pop-Up events offer family-friendly activities and connect residents to resources. The next Pop-Up is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3 at 5 p.m. in Fairfield Court on the 2500 block of Phaup Street. Community Walks with police leadership also occur monthly, with the next one set for Wednesday, June 18 in Sector 111.

The department is also encouraging responsible gun ownership by distributing gun safes purchased through American Rescue Plan funding. Residents can request a gun safe by calling (804) 516-0451.

In support of positive activities for youth, Richmond’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities is offering a wide range of free and low-cost summer camps. In addition, “Late Night Gym” returns this Friday and will run on weekend evenings from 6 to 10 p.m. through Labor Day at the Gill Center, Southside Community Center, and Bellemeade Community Center.

Chief Edwards emphasized the importance of community participation in the city’s broader safety strategy. “We have a city-wide strategy for a safer summer for all of us in Richmond,” he said. “It is the role of the community that can be most important. Together we can make this the safest summer for all of us.”

RPD is urging residents to help by locking vehicles and securing firearms in homes.