Officials Collect Hundreds Of Firearms In LA Gun Buyback Program
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Officials Monday announced that 746 firearms were taken off the street in a Gun Buyback program.
A total of 374 handguns, 200 rifles, 143 shotguns, and 29 assault weapons were collected at two participating locations, according to Mayor Eric Garcetti and LAPD Chief Charlie Beck.
"The Gun Buyback gives Angelenos the opportunity to help make our city safer by taking these guns off the street so they don't fall into the hands of criminals or children," said Garcetti.
The LAPD Gun Unit worked to determine the classification and type of each surrendered firearm in order to determine it's value for the trade in.
According to authorities, assault weapons were worth up to $200 each, while handguns, rifles and shotguns were each worth up to $100.
Participants received a Ralph's prepaid card in exchange for the surrendered weapons.
The Gun Buyback program was an initiative of the Mayor's Gang Reduction and Youth Development Office. The program also involves the LAPD, community organizations, victim advocacy organizations, and faith-based groups.
Since 2009, a total of 14,442 guns have been taken off of the street in 10 Gun Buyback events.
