Yesterday, at approximately 5:32 p.m. at the 400 Block of Hummingbird Drive, police officers responded to a call regarding several suspicious subjects, one seen with a firearm, according to the Brea Police Department.
The subjects were seen entering two separate vehicles and began to leave the area.
When the police officers arrived, they located both vehicles and detained 5 adult males.
One of the males was an area resident and was filming a video with his groups of friends.
A prop gun was utilized for the video and was located in one of the vehicles.
No crimes were identified and the individuals were released.
To avoid misunderstandings and police involvement when filming with props—especially something that resembles a firearm—there are several precautions the film crew in question could have taken:
1. Notify Local Authorities in Advance
- Inform the local police department about the time, location, and nature of the shoot.
- Provide details about any props being used, especially if they resemble weapons.
- This helps prevent alarmed calls from neighbors and ensures officers are aware of the activity.
2. Use Clearly Marked Props
- Ensure prop weapons are visibly fake—brightly colored tips, lightweight materials, or markings that distinguish them from real firearms.
- Avoid brandishing them in public or in a way that could be misinterpreted.
3. Secure Permits if Necessary
- Depending on the city or county, filming—even on private property—may require a permit, especially if it involves props, special effects, or large groups.
- Brea may have specific ordinances or permit requirements for filming.
4. Post Visible Signage
- Use signs like “Filming in Progress” or “Prop Weapons in Use” around the area to inform passersby and reduce the chance of alarm.
5. Limit Public Visibility
- Film in areas that are not easily visible to the public or passersby.
- Avoid filming near streets, parks, or other public spaces without proper precautions.
6. Have a Responsible Point of Contact
- Designate someone to be the liaison with law enforcement or neighbors in case of questions or concerns.
- This person should have documentation about the shoot and be ready to explain the situation calmly.
Steps to Obtain a Filming Permit in Brea
- Register an Account: Visit the City of Brea Permit Portal and create an account to access permit applications.
- Submit a Filming Permit Application: Include details such as:
- Location(s) and time of filming
- Type of activity (e.g., use of prop weapons, special effects)
- Number of crew members
- Equipment being used
- Notify Brea Police Department: Especially if props like firearms are involved, notifying BPD can prevent misunderstandings.
- Provide Insurance Documentation: Most cities require liability insurance for filming on public or private property.
- Pay Applicable Fees: Fees may vary depending on location, duration, and complexity of the shoot.
Contact Info
- City of Brea Civic Center: 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA 92821
- Phone: (714) 671-4448