Finch, Gaudett Organize Gun Buyback Program

Mayor Bill Finch and Police Chief Joe Gaudett on Friday will share details of a special gun buyback event to take place this Saturday in an effort to remove dangerous weapons from streets and homes, according to the mayor’s office.

The mayor’s office says nearly $100,000 has been secured from the City of Bridgeport, the Bridgeport City Council, Bridgeport Housing Authority and private sector donors–both individuals and businesses to fund the program.

“Following last week’s tragedy, it has become a national priority to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “Chief Gaudett and I are encouraging City residents to turn in their guns so they don’t fall into the wrong person’s hands.”

Police will offer up to $200 value for a working handgun. People turning in rifles will receive $75. A weapon determined to be an assault-type rifle will be eligible for a higher rate of remuneration. More details will be released at a press conference on Friday at the Morton Government Center.

“Every gun that is turned in and destroyed is a gun that can’t end up on the street in the hands of a criminal or in the hands of a young person who could injure himself or someone else,” said police Chief Joe Gaudett.

The department has a “no questions asked” policy that will allow people to turn in weapons anonymously without fear of being prosecuted for illegal gun possession. BB guns and non-working guns will be accepted but won’t be eligible for a gift card. Gun dealers are not eligible to participate.

The gun buyback program will take place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Bridgeport Police Department Community Services Division, 1395 Sylvan Avenue, Bridgeport CT.

People turning in weapons must follow a precise protocol.

1. Firearms MUST be delivered unloaded;

2. Firearms MUST be put in a clear plastic bag and put into another container (gym bag, backpack, etc);

3. If depositing ammunition in addition to a firearm, ammunition must be delivered in separate bag;

4. If transporting the firearm by car, the firearm must be transported in the trunk of the car;

5. After the firearm is screened by officers and determined to be a working firearm, a gift card will be given;

6. Non-operational guns, antique firearms, BB guns and holsters will be accepted but do not qualify for a gift card.