More than 650 firearms have been returned as part of the gun buyback program launched in December by Mayor Bill Finch and Police Chief Joe Gaudett. The mayor and chief will share more details about the program at a news conference Wednesday (today) afternoon at the Morton Government Center, a day prior to Vice President Joe Biden’s scheduled visit to Connecticut to discuss gun violence.
“This has so far, exceeded all expectations,” said Mayor Bill Finch in a statement. “The outpouring of financial support from the corporate community and private citizens was amazing. Every gun that is taken off the street is one less gun that can harm an innocent bystander. We are working together with President Obama and Mayors Against Illegal Guns to pass common sense gun control legislation so we never have to relive the horror of Sandy Hook again.”
The city has received more than 650 guns, including about three dozen assault weapons. The police department has given out about $70,625 and approximately $2000 in grocery gift cards, according to the mayor’s office.
The department has a “no questions asked” policy that allows people to turn in weapons anonymously without fear for being prosecuted for illegal gun possession.
Why have Chief Gaudett and Mayor Finch failed to publicize the TIPS program? Chief Gaudett did meet to hear about this program to overcome community fears about providing info to the Police and putting a family at risk. Trustworthy Infomation-Public Safety TIPS, has existed for eight months but no City support through public media. No cost to taxpayers of the City. An idea developed and presented to the City Council. What is the problem? Do we have to spend large taxpayer funds with consultants to make a decision to promote the program often? Just asking, again and again. Time will tell.
*** Money talks, so continue the program. So far, so good! ***