Rome PD Gun Buy Back Program Underway

Rome, NY (WIBX) - The Rome Police Department's Gun Amnesty and Buy Back Program is being conducted this week.

"Perhaps there was a family relative who had passed away, and now their guns are in the house, and their spouse doesn't know what to do with them. It's not uncommon for a burglary to occurr, where these guns are stolen and end up on the street and can be used against the public or a police officer. These are the guns we're targeting," Detective Commander Tim Bates said.

Through Saturday, Rome residents can surrender guns in exchange for cash card payments. "They can use the cards at any store, similar to a debit card," Bates said.

Firearms can be dropped of each day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Rome Police Department on North James Street, or they can arrange to have the picked up, Bates said.

When asked about the amnesty part of the program, Bates said, "If it's been used in a crime, things of that nature, thats where the amnesty stops. But, the possession of it, to bring it here, or have it picked up, there are no questions asked," he said.

Compensation for eligible firearms:

• $100 - For working handguns and pistols
• $50 - Handguns and pistols that are not longer workings
• $25 - Non-working long guns (rifles/shotguns)

For more information, contact Rome police at 315- 399-7780.