BRIDGEPORT – A gun buyback program was held on Saturday by the Bridgeport Police Department.
This latest installment of the program resulted in a total of 127 firearms being bought back and is part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce violence and crack down on illegal gun use and trafficking in the city.
“Taking action against gun violence – and the use or trafficking of illegal guns – has always been, and remains, a top priority for me and my administration,” said Mayor Bill Finch in a statement released Sunday. “Our Gun Buyback program has proven to be successful, taking in more than 1,000 guns since we initiated the program several years ago. Guns that are purchased as part of this program can never be used to hurt or kill ever again. I strongly believe that this effort has saved lives and has made Bridgeport a safer place for kids and families. Even if this program saves one life, it is money well spent.”
As part of the program, the Bridgeport offers up to $200 for a working handgun. People turning in rifles will receive up to $100. A weapon determined to be an assault rifle will be eligible for up to $400.
Bridgeport’s Gun Buyback program began in 2012 and has resulted in taking more than 1,000 guns off the street.
The previous installment of Bridgeport’s Gun Buyback program took place on July 18, and resulted in taking 100 additional guns off the street, including 5 assault weapons.
“Every gun that is turned in is a gun that won’t end up on the street in the hands of a criminal or in the hands of a child who could accidentally injure himself or someone else,” said Police Chief Gaudett in a statement. “The police department works hard every day to keep our kids and families safe. This is another tool that helps keep guns out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have them.”
