Grand Rapids police are stepping up patrols during the first week of July as celebrations can lead to an increase of gunfire mixed with fireworks.
“We have that operations plan in place. It’s a lot of work for us. A lot of officers will be called in on their day off,” Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom said.
The department is preparing for a busy holiday week with thousands expected to gather downtown for the annual fireworks display and other celebrations.
“We’re going to have thousands of people downtown for the fireworks, but then July 4 itself also statistically, is a very busy day for the police department,” Winstrom said…