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New Haven Gun Buyback Takes Place Saturday

gun display
Keith Srakocic
/
AP

Anyone looking to surrender guns anonymously will be able to drop them off without leaving their vehicle at New Haven Police Academy on Saturday. The buyback comes after a nearly 50% uptick in gun violence during the pandemic.

The gun buyback program runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will incorporate COVID-19 precautions. Those participating can drive-up to drop off guns, no questions asked.

New Haven Police Department will offer gift cards while supplies last. They range from $10 to $150 dollars, depending on the style of gun. That includes everything from BB guns to assault-style weapons.

Guns must be delivered unloaded and in clear plastic bags. Any ammunition must be in a separate bag. The person dropping off the gun will not be charged with illegal possession of that specific firearm.

Cassandra Basler, a former senior editor at WSHU, came to the station by way of Columbia Journalism School in New York City. When she's not reporting on wealth and poverty, she's writing about food and family.