In a recent compliance crackdown by Petaluma Police, a 50-year-old resident, Peter Dada, was cited for not properly storing his shotgun in a manner consistent with municipal safety ordinances. The probation search, conducted on Sunday at a Culpepper Drive residence, pinpointed Dada as the owner of the firearm that was found unsecured in a closet, potentially accessible to unauthorized users, which included minors.
According to a report by the Petaluma Police Department, the incident occurred at 6:15 PM during a routine check to ensure that individuals on active felony probation adhere to the conditions set by the court. The city’s ordinance mandates that firearms be locked away or disabled, a law unanimously passed by the City Council back in December 2022. Dada's shotgun was seized, and he must now appear in court for the violation.
Petaluma's firm stance on firearm safety is further backed by its availability of free gun locks to residents, which can be obtained from the local police department office. This policy aims to curb accidental shootings, and Petaluma is the first city in Sonoma County to enforce such a regulation, joining more than 20 other cities across California that share a similar commitment to firearm security.
