NEW YORK, NY – A gun buyback program this week in Queens at Calvary Assembly of God Church in Ozone Park netted 62 guns for the New York City Police Department.
The event was hosted in response to an uptick in gun crimes in the boro and city this year, spearheaded by the New York City Police Department and Queens District Attorney’s Office.
Residents were invited to turn in their guns to the police. In return, there were no questions asked.
“Every effort that we make against the proliferation of gun violence makes an impact. I am committed to investigating and prosecuting drivers of violence but it is just as important for all of us to work together as a community on meaningful solutions before such violence occurs,” Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said. “Each of the 62 guns recovered today is a potential life saved and a potential tragedy averted. I thank the NYPD, our community partners, faith-based leaders and co-sponsors for their unwavering commitment to public safety.”
“Taking guns off the streets is essential to preserving public safety and fighting crime,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “Gun buybacks are one of the many measures we are taking to prevent potential tragedies and save lives. Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood, and my office will continue to do everything to protect communities in Queens and across the state. I thank District Attorney Katz and our partners in law enforcement for their shared commitment to this initiative.”
To date, under Katz, Queens law enforcement officials have recovered over 400 guns.