The Grand Rapids Police Department announced a new gun buyback program. They’re partnering with other city departments along with the Safe Alliances for Everyone Task Force.
It’s part of an ongoing effort to reduce violent crime in the city.
“This is one part of many of the Chief’s vision to create a stronger partnership between community and the police department in addressing the concerns of their neighborhoods and right now we’re having an issue with gun crimes and with violence.”
That’s Sgt Dan Adams, Public Information Officer with the Grand Rapids Police Department. He says the upcoming Gun Buy Back program sponsored by GRPD will hopefully address at least some of the recent issues of gun violence in Grand Rapids.
“We are offering the opportunity to hand in the guns, no questions asked, no information will be taken, complete anonymity. Hopefully some of the younger people in the community who may think it’s cool to have a gun can understand that this is a good way to make a better decision and get rid of that firearm and not have to worry a bout getting caught with it or getting in trouble at some point.”
With the assistance of other City departments and a financial contribution from the Safe Alliances for Everyone (SAFE) Task Force -the GRPD is sponsoring two opportunities over the next month. Sgt. Adams says each event will encourage individuals to dispose of firearms in exchange for a pre-paid gift card with no questions asked, an easy way to get rid of unwanted firearms.
“What we’re really hoping to do is number one, give people an opportunity who have firearms who don’t want them, don’t need them a safe way to dispose of them and make a little money in the process. What it does for us is to gives an opportunity to get more guns off the streets.”
The gun buy back dates are Saturday, October 24th from noon to 4pm at the Former Parking Lot of Revolution Culture Movement at 1534 Kalamazoo Ave SE. The second will be held November 7th from 10am until 2 pm at the Genesis Non-Profit Housing Corporation, at 851 Leonard NW.
