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The Albany County Sheriff's Office has announced a new gun buyback program aimed at reducing gun violence. The initiative will offer $350 to individuals who turn in operable firearms during mobile buyback events. Additionally, a reward of $750 is available to anyone who provides credible information leading to the recovery of an illegal firearm through a tip line at 518-655-7860. Sheriff Craig Apple emphasized the importance of removing guns from the streets, stating, "We want the guns off the street. Period." The buybacks are designed to be anonymous, even if the gun has been used in a crime, to encourage participation without fear of legal repercussions.
The program is part of the Detailed Instruction Supporting Community Violence Education and Reduction (DISCOVER) initiative, which was unanimously adopted by the Albany County Legislature in November 2022. The DISCOVER program also includes firearm education and training, free gun locking mechanisms, and pistol training courses for county residents. The tip line is a collaborative effort between the Sheriff's Office and the County Legislature, aiming to involve the community in making neighborhoods safer.
Albany County Legislature Chairman Andrew Joyce expressed his support for the program, saying, "Public safety requires a comprehensive approach, and the DISCOVER program is just one piece of the Albany County Legislature’s efforts to keep residents safe." The program follows a successful gun buyback event in January, where 117 firearms were turned in, including 63 handguns and 54 long guns.