Bristol Police hold gun buyback event

An effort to prevent gun violence and suicidal tendencies

BRISTOL, R.I (WLNE) – Sponsored by the Bristol Health Equity Zone and the Matthew Patton Foundation, the Bristol Police Department is holding a gun buyback event on Saturday, November 28th.

The department says the event is a suicide prevention effort and a harm reduction initiative.

While the town does not suffer from a gun violence problem or firearm-related criminal activity,” it is not immune from the effects of self-harm events and instances of depression and suicidality”, the department said in the release.

Recognizing the difficulty in the year 2020, the department partnered with local agencies in providing resources and care for people struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.

As part of the program, functional handguns or certain long guns are eligible for up to $200, up to $100 for functioning rifles and shotguns, and $500 for any firearm discovered to be used in a crime or stolen.

Older or nonfunctioning weapons will also be accepted for turn-in and reward.

Police urge residents possessing unwanted or unneeded firearms in the home to take part in the event.

The event is from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2020