Fairfax County officials announced on Mar. 26 that the county has processed 481 cases under Virginia’s Emergency Substantial Risk Order (ESRO) law, commonly known as the Red Flag law, since 2020 and temporarily seized 947 firearms during that period.
The announcement aims to raise awareness about the ESRO law, which is designed to prevent individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing or transporting firearms. The initiative underscores Fairfax County’s commitment to public safety and proactive harm prevention.
Recently, campaign posters about the Red Flag law were placed in more than 340 Fairfax Connector buses in English, Spanish and Korean. This outreach effort is intended to inform thousands of residents daily about how they can help prevent gun violence by recognizing warning signs and understanding available legal tools.
“This law has been implemented in Fairfax County with great success,” said Jeffrey C. McKay, chairman of Board of Supervisors. “And what we’re doing today is making sure that we spread that message to every corner of the community so…they know what actions they can take to contribute to the overall safety of (the) county.”
The ESRO process allows either a law enforcement officer or a commonwealth attorney who has probable cause to believe someone poses a substantial risk of harm in the near future by possessing or acquiring a firearm, to petition a judge or magistrate for an order restricting access to firearms. While only police officers or commonwealth attorneys can formally seek such orders, residents are encouraged to report concerning behavior such as suicide risk, escalating unsafe actions or credible threats.
Officials advise residents seeking an ESRO for non-emergencies to call the Police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. In situations involving immediate danger, calling or texting 9-1-1 is recommended.
