In response to the wave of gun violence in New York, the NYPD is launching its Cash for Guns program to get as many guns off the streets in exchange for financial grants, including an Apple iPad.
Gun sales have skyrocketed across the country. Between March 2020 and March 2022, 18% of American households purchased a gun and nearly 50% of adult Americans now live in a household that owns a firearm, according to the National Center for Opinion Research at the University of Chicago.
New York has notoriously strict gun laws, but the vast majority of firearms used in crime in the city were obtained illegally, according to the NYPD. Phantom weapons, almost undetectable, flood the streets.
Since 2013, the New York Attorney General’s Office and state and city police have organized gun buy-back events throughout New York. The program has successfully collected more than 4,700 firearms, according to state figures.
The next event will be held June 4 at 947 Castleton Ave. in West Brighton from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
New Yorkers will receive a $200 prepaid card and an Apple iPad, subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis, for operable pistols and assault rifles. For rifles, shotguns, and air pistols, individuals will receive a $25 prepaid card.
No questions will be asked about the provenance of the weapons, the New York Police Department said.
“There are too many guns on our streets,” said Deputy Chief Gin Yee, commander of the New York Police District. “Please hand them over for cash and an iPad.”
Another event is scheduled for May 21 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 279 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
