JAMAICA—The NYPD, along with Queens District Attorney Richard Brown and State Senator Malcolm Smith, will host a gun buy-back program on Saturday, Aug. 18 at the New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Jamaica.
The buyback comes amid a wave of gun violence in the city — shootings are up this year compared to last and crime is up throughout the borough.
Anyone who turns in a working gun will receive a $200 debit card that can be used for purchases or at any ATM. No questions will be asked about the guns.
"There have been an overwhelming number of shootings in Southeast Queens by illegal firearms," Smith said in a statement. "Providing a monetary incentive to help rid our neighborhoods of illegal guns will help make our streets safer."
Those looking to turn in firearms are encouraged to bring them in unloaded and in plastic bags or shoeboxes. If transported by car, the weapon should be in the trunk.
Handguns, rifles and shotguns will all be eligible to receive the $200 bank card. BB guns and air pistols will exchanged for a $20 gift card.
While residents are allowed to turn in an unlimited number of weapons, they will only receive payment for the first three.
The gun buy-back program will run from 10 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 122-05 Smith St., in Jamaica, Queens.
