By Jared D. Childress | OBSERVER Staff Writer
The Sacramento Police Department will allow people to safely dispose of firearms, “no questions asked,” with the “Gun Buy Back” at the Public Safety Center, 5770 Freeport Blvd., 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 22. The effort aims to increase safety in Sacramento, which has experienced numerous gun violence instances this year.
Participants will receive a $50 gift card for each fully functional firearm — no identification required. The firearms must be working, unloaded and locked in the trunk of the vehicle. People surrendering guns must stay in their car as no walk-ups are allowed. No ammunition is allowed at the event.
This event follows the “Gas For Guns” buyback in May where more than 130 firearms were turned in, including at least one assault weapon.
The event came on the heels of the mass shooting on K Street in April that left six dead. Since, the city has seen continued gun violence. This past summer, local football coach Gregory Najee Grimes was fatally shot leaving a downtown club in July.
Gun violence continues to rise. In September, five people were shot and killed within 72 hours. According to a map created by KCRA 3, more than 250 gun-related incidents have occurred this year.
Sgt. Zach Eaton of Sac PD said in a statement to the City of Sacramento’s news website, City Express, that the gun buyback will be a great opportunity for people to get rid of unwanted firearms and “get paid for it.”
“The Sacramento Police Department is committed to using innovative ways to connect with our communities and increase safety in our city,” Eaton said.