Green Bay Reporter

Law enforcement agencies across Brown County have joined forces with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Green Bay Area Crime Stoppers in an effort to deter illegal firearms purchases. The initiative involves the distribution of tactical mats to firearm retailers and pawn shops in the county, aimed at educating prospective buyers on the legal implications of purchasing firearms for those who are prohibited from doing so.

According to Chief Chris Davis of the Green Bay Police Department, the campaign seeks to address the issue of firearms falling into the wrong hands through straw purchases. Chief Davis emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, "We have found illegally obtained firearms to be used in shootings and exchanged for drugs in our communities. This effort is intended to put people on notice of the serious consequences of straw-purchasing firearms for others."

Supporting the initiative, Hans Lux, Program Coordinator of Green Bay Area Crime Stoppers, highlighted the importance of preventing illegal gun sales, stating, "Illegal gun purchases have the potential to be used in violent crimes and criminal activity. We need to make those purchasers aware of the criminal consequences of participating in these illegal activities."

The tactical mats, funded by Green Bay Area Crime Stoppers, feature the logos of participating law enforcement agencies and information on reporting crime tips to the non-profit organization. The collaborative effort includes agencies such as Ashwaubenon Public Safety, Brown County Sheriff’s Office, De Pere Police Department, and University of Wisconsin–Green Bay Police, among others.

Individuals with information pertaining to illegal firearms purchases are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or Green Bay Area Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling (920) 432-STOP (7867), visiting www.432stop.com, or using the "P3 Tips" app.

In recognition of their contribution to the initiative, Insight Creative, Inc. of the Green Bay area has volunteered their services in designing the educational mats.

For further information, individuals can reach out to Jennifer Gonzalez, Communications Coordinator at the Green Bay Police Department, at (920) 448-3200 or jennifer.gonzalez@greenbaywi.gov.