Stamford, CT - As part of an overall effort to reduce gun violence, Stamford Police Department will host two events to buy back guns, and collect ammunition and violent video games.
“The opportunity to remove illegal guns and ammunitions and to remove the negative influence of violent video games will send a positive message to our community for the betterment of our children. On every level, as a society, we will not tolerate this kind of violence,” stated Mayor Pavia.
The Stamford Police Department has previously held two successful Gun Buy-Back events, prior to and in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings, collecting a total of 32 firearms, including 2 shotguns, 5 rifles, 14 revolvers, 11 pistols, 2 BB guns, 2 swords and 1 battle axe.
“Each year, there are thousands of gun related deaths and many gun related injuries in the United States,” stated the Director of Public Safety, Health and Welfare, Thaddeus K. Jankowski. “This program advances our local efforts here in Stamford to prevent the result of gun violence, injury and death.”
The Gun Buy-Back Program, Ammunition and Violent Video game collection days will be held on Saturday, January 19th, from 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM, at the Turn of River Fire Station located at 268 Turn of River Road. The second is Saturday, January 26th, from 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM at the Chester Addison Community Center, located at 245 Selleck Street.
According to Police Chief, Jonathan Fontneau, “the purpose of the program is to provide individuals with a safe and legal way to dispose of unwanted firearms and ammunition from homes and businesses to avoid accidental injury, or be stolen and used in a crime.”
The department will accept both operational and non-operational firearms, ammunition, carry cases and holsters and other dangerous weapons as well as violent video games. Gift cards will be given for operational firearms.
PROGRAM RULES:
? All firearms must be unloaded
? Weapons should be transported in a vehicle’s trunk
? If carrying by hand, place the firearm in a bag or a box
? Ammunitions should be transported in a container separate from any firearm
? The program is open to both Stamford residents and non-residents
? Businesses & Gun Dealers do not qualify
? Firearms considered to be junk will not be accepted
This month’s dates are being sponsored by the Stamford Hospital and Charter Oak Communities. If you are interested in sponsoring future programs, please contact Officer Joseph Steyer at 203-977-4916.
