I grew up in Hamden and graduated HHS in '96 (GREEN DRAGONS!) I'm always happy to spread the word about local events going on in my hometown...like this weekend, The Hamden Police Department will be doing a GUN BUY BACK!
The Hamden Police Department, Town of Hamden, Yale New Haven Hospital’s Injury and Violence Prevention Program, and the Injury Free Coalition for Kids of New Haven will hold Hamden’s first gun buyback event on Saturday, February 15th from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Hamden Police Department, 2900 Dixwell Avenue.
The gun buyback is being held in the spirit of public safety and prevention to make our homes and community safer. The buyback provides an opportunity for people to anonymously and safely dispose of unwanted and unsecured guns in exchange for gift cards. The goal is to prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands, such as those of children, suicidal people, perpetrators of domestic violence, and criminals.
The event will also promote gun safety and safe storage. For gun owners who want to keep their guns but seek to better secure their weapons, a limited supply of free gun locks and car safes (with valid pistol permit) will be provided at the event.
The gun buyback is 100% anonymous, no questions asked, and it will take place in a safe and secure location. Guns must be delivered unloaded in clear plastic bags, and any ammunition must be delivered in a separate bag. The person dropping off the gun will not be charged with illegal possession of that specific firearm.
The Hamden Police Department will be managing the site and handling the guns. The Connecticut State Police will destroy the collected guns, which will then be donated to the Swords into Plowshares program to be recycled and transformed into gardening tools.
We are actively seeking donations to fund the gun buyback. To make a tax deductible donation to the YNHH Injury and Violence Prevention Program, please Download the YNHH Contribution Form. Contribution forms can also be requested from any of the contacts listed. Please also return completed contribution forms to the contacts listed.
The buyback will provide gift cards (American Express, Stop & Shop, & Amazon), while supplies last, to those who turn in a working firearm.
$25 Single & double-shot (Derringer style) handguns
$50 Rifles and Shotguns
$100 Pistols and Revolvers (Handguns)
$200 Assault Weapons (to be determined by HPD)