415 Firearms Turned in as part of APD Gun Buyback

July 13, 2019

The Albuquerque Police Department’s Gun Buyback event today generated an overwhelming response from the public, resulting in 415 firearms that were turned in to police. Of those guns, 5 had been reported stolen.

“This is one part of our multi-pronged effort to reduce gun violence in Albuquerque,” Mayor Tim Keller said. “As police work to keep people safe, we also need support from law-abiding citizens who are often targeted by thieves. This successful gun buyback event gave people a safe way to dispose of unwanted firearms, while taking those guns out of circulation.”

APD hosted today’s gun buyback event as part of Mayor Keller’s efforts to reduce gun violence. Residents were able to turn in their guns with no questions asked. Event organizers paid $75 for handguns, shotguns and rifles and $100 for assault rifles.

APD partnered with the Albuquerque Metro Crime Stoppers and the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office to hold the one-day event. Councilor Pat Davis provided $30,000 from community enhancement set-aside funds which will be granted to Albuquerque Metro Crime Stoppers for the event. Guns collected during the event will be used for an art project addressing gun violence.