Mayor Announces Locations for Gun Buyback Initiative
Video by Ashley Riegle
The program, which began in 2009, allows individuals to surrender their firearms, no questions asked, in order to reduce gun violence.
The Gun Buyback will be held on May 4 at four central locations throughout Los Angeles.
Participants will receive a Ralphs gift card in exchange for the firearm. The amount per firearm depends on the type- up to $200 will be given for Assault weapons and up to $100 for hand guns, shotguns, and rifles.
Mayor Villaraigosa stressed that this program is in no way a "sting", but rather "an anonymous process in which individuals can surrender their weapons, no questions asked."
Law enforcement officials will not be taking pictures of participants or writing down their license plate numbers.
All weapons will be checked for lost or stolen status. If the weapon is lost or stolen, it will be returned to its rightful owner. All other weapons will be destroyed by the LAPD.
The program is made possible through funding from the Mayor's Gang Reduction and Youth Development Office (GRYD).
The Gun Buyback Initiative has removed nearly 10,000 firearms from the streets since its start in 2009. LAPD Chief Charlie Beck discussed the success of the program.
"So far we've had 248 victims of gun violence in LA since beginning of the year...200 less than in past years," explained Chief Beck.
Villaraigosa also stressed the program's reduction of gang violence.
"I don't feel the need to defend the program, the numbers speak for themselves," according to Villaraigosa.
The initiative announcement comes nearly a week after President Barack Obama announced the senate defeated a gun-buyer background check bill. Villaraigosa addressed these national issues Tuesday morning.
"In the face of Washington with its head in the sand, cities including L.A. are doing everything we can," stated Villaraigosa.
Villaraigosa hopes this initiative will be one of prevention and ultimately reduce the risk of injury caused by guns.
"I encourage every Angeleno to turn in their guns and say no to senseless violence," explained Villaraigosa.
Angelinos can have their guns bought back at the below four locations between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Los Angeles Locations:
LAFD Fire Academy, Frank Hotchkins Training Academy
1700 Stadium Way
Los Angeles, Calif. 90012
Park & Ride Lot
1300 W. Pacific Coast Highway
Wilmington, Calif. 90744
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
7900 S. Western Avenue
Los Angeles, Calif. 90047
Van Nuys Masonic Building Assoc.
14750 Sherman Way
Van Nuys, Calif. 91405
What determines the amount that will be paid, for instance, a shotgun - it is indicated "up to $100." If I surrender my shotgun, I want to be assured that I will receive a voucher in the amount of $100. Please advise. Thank you.