In an attempt to rid SF streets of firearms, the San Francisco Police Department and nonprofit United Playaz are hosting a gun buy-back event today in the city, with other like-minded events happening throughout the Bay Area till later this afternoon.
As with virtually any urban area in the United States: The Bay Area has a gun violence dilemma. Although, as we reported on earlier this summer, the issue – in San Francisco, at least – is getting better, with SF homicide rates inching near a historic low this year. In an effort to remove the source of the problem – guns and the ammunition they use – San Francisco is hosting a comprehensive gun buy-back program today, in tandem with other like-minded events happening across the Bay Area, as reported by KRON4.
We’re up to 227 firearms turned in during the first two hours of today’s gun buy-back. Help make #SF streets and homes safer- come by @UP4LIFE at 1038 Howard Street until noon. #SafetyWithRespect pic.twitter.com/JR8DO9Xs75
— San Francisco Police (@SFPD) December 14, 2019
Put on in partnership between the SFPD and United Playaz – a local violence prevention and youth development organization – anyone is welcomed to bring said weapons in their possession to the booths at 1038 Howard Street, which the city will then buy from you, sans questioning.
“It really is a collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community,” said Deputy Police Chief Greg McEachern about the event to KPIX earlier in the week. “This opportunity that we have here in San Francisco to reduce gun violence, especially during the holiday season, may save a child’s life, it may save the life of a loved one that you have because there will be one less gun off the street.”
Forfeited handguns will garner a $100, each. Assault weapons? Expect $200 in your pocket for every one surrendered. Funds will be given via pre-paid cards.
Thanks to @RedwoodCityPD @SMCSheriff & @belmontcapolice for collaborating today on #gunbuyback in San Carlos. #SandyHook #enough @gisellemarie pic.twitter.com/VTZrmA67yp
— Shelly Masur (@skmasur) December 14, 2019
Below are today's various gun buy-back exchange points in SF and other Bay Area locations, according to KRON4:
- 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gilroy Corporation Yard: 613 Old Gilroy Street
- 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Solano County Fairgrounds: 900 Fairground Drive
- 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 1000 Skyway Road in San Carlos
- 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1038 Howard Street in San Francisco
More details on this semi-annual buy-back can be found here.
Also, if you're not interested in forking over your handgun but want to ensure it's not misused, you can swing by any SF police station and pick up the appropriate gunlock, free of charge.
Contact Rudy Corpuz Jr. at 415-573-621 if you have any other questions about today's happening or how you can rid yourself of unwanted weaponry, should you miss the event.
