(MENAFN– EIN Presswire)
NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James announced today that 548 firearms were collected during a community gun buyback event in Rochester, organized with the Rochester Police Department. This initiative is part of James’ ongoing campaign to reduce gun violence in New York. Since taking office in 2019, over 8,200 guns have been removed from the state.
“Gun buyback events help communities get rid of unwanted firearms,” said Attorney General James. “Each gun collected is a potential life saved. I thank the Rochester Police and local government partners for their efforts in making this event successful.”
The event collected a total of 548 guns, including 32 assault weapons, 306 handguns, and 152 long guns.
“These buyback programs help reduce illegal gun trafficking and keep dangerous weapons off the streets,” said U.S. Representative Joe Morelle. “I appreciate Attorney General James’ leadership in this important work.”
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello noted that these programs are crucial for community safety: “They help remove firearms from homes where they might be unsafe, contributing to broader safety initiatives.”
Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans added, “These events are a tool to tackle illegal firearms. I encourage people to surrender unwanted guns to help reduce violence in our neighborhoods.”
Senator Samra G. Brouk emphasized that community action, through events like this, helps prevent violence: “By removing firearms from neighborhoods, we lower the risk of violent incidents.”
Senator Jeremy Cooney stated, “These buybacks are vital for curbing gun violence, and I thank Attorney General James for her commitment to public safety.”
Rochester Police Chief David M. Smith remarked, “Events like these encourage the community to turn in unwanted firearms, helping decrease gun violence.”
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