Who: Los Angeles Police Department’s Assistant Chief of Police, James McDonnell, Los Angeles City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo, Los Angeles County Undersheriff William T. Stonich, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Robert Franco, ATF Agent, FBI Representative, VIP Guests

What: Press Conference Announcing a United Request for No Violence In Los Angeles on the National Holiday, 4th of July

When: Thursday, July 3, 2003 at 1:00 p.m.

Where: Los Angeles Police Department Elysian Park Academy
1880 North Academy Drive, Athletic Field

Los Angeles: United as Americans, representatives of Los Angeles Area law enforcement, City and community leaders, athletes, entertainment and media personalities will gather as a group, to encourage Los Angeles residents to celebrate the 4th of July Independence Holiday as a "Zero Violence" Day. Last year, Los Angeles Area law enforcement agencies worked together to reduce celebratory gunfire during the 2002 4th of July Holiday period. During that 24-hour period, LAPD alone confiscated 12 firearms and three residents lost their lives due to gun violence. In addition, the LAPD Communications Center received 79 "Shots Fired" radio calls.

These incidents are examples of why the Los Angeles Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies are focusing their efforts to remove dangerous weapons from our streets. During this "Zero Violence" period, the LAPD and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will engage in monitoring, enforcing, and arresting violators as part of a strategic effort in reducing gun violence. Combining the law enforcement efforts with the request by our community leaders for "Zero Violence," peace on our streets is a goal that can be achieved with the desire and cooperation of the residents of the Los Angeles Area.

This press advisory was prepared by Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.