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Schenectady police will host a gun buyback event this Saturday (June 21) at Armory Studios on Washington Avenue from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event aims to reduce the number of firearms on the streets and is part of a larger effort by local law enforcement agencies, including the Schenectady County Sheriff's Office and New York State Police, to enhance community safety.
Participants can turn in their firearms in exchange for prepaid gift cards, with values ranging from $25 to $750, depending on the type of gun surrendered. All firearms must be unloaded and placed in a plastic or paper bag or box. Licensed gun dealers are not eligible to participate in the event, which is an amnesty program, meaning no questions will be asked about the firearms being surrendered.
The event is organized by the New York State Attorney General's Office and is supported by several local police departments, including those from Rotterdam, Glenville, Scotia, and Niskayuna. According to NEWS10 ABC, the event will not accept gun parts, and homemade or 3D-printed guns will only receive $25, regardless of the number surrendered.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve public safety and reduce gun violence in the area. Community members are encouraged to participate and help make Schenectady a safer place.