Wilmington – Delaware citizens overwhelming supported today’s Gun Buy Back turning in thousands of firearms. Delaware State troopers, Wilmington police and New Castle County police collected a variety of firearms including assault weapons, handguns, shotguns, and rifles at two locations.

“We were extremely pleased with the turn out and the number of weapons turned in. Moreover, the community support has been overwhelming. I am confident that today’s event will go a long way in keeping our streets safer and our children out of harms way,” said Lewis D. Schiliro, Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security.

The General Assembly, through Senate Bill 25, allocated $100,000 for the Gun Buy Back. Due to the overwhelming response, those funds were expended by mid-day.  However, the Governor’s Office authorized additional funding allowing police to continue accepting weapons and issuing vouchers.

Citizens will be able to redeem vouchers for bank gift cards as soon as they become available. The redemption will take place at Canaan Baptist Church. The Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) will utilize local media to publish the date of redemption. Additional information about the redemption will also be on the Delaware State Police website at http://dsp.delaware.gov or citizens can call the Department at (302) 744-2680.

As a result of the success of this program, the Department hopes to work with its municipal police partners to conduct another Gun Buy Back early next year.

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