Police departments team up to buy guns from the public

PINELLAS COUNTY - Clearwater and Largo police are teaming up to buy guns back from the public in an effort to reduce the number of unwanted and illegal weapons on the street.

The 'Gifts for Guns' buyback will be held Friday from 7am to 1pm at three locations: the North Greenwood Recreation Complex, 900 N. Martin Luther King Avenue in Clearwater; the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 400 S. Old Coachman Road in Clearwater and the Highland Presbyterian Church, 1885 Highland Avenue in Largo.

People turning in guns will receive a gift card and no questions will be asked about the gun. This allow people to surrender their firearms without fear of charges for illegal possession, said police.

"One less illegal gun on the street is one less potential death or injury," said Clearwater Deputy Chief Sandra Wilson. "This program also reduces the chance that a gun could be stolen and used for criminal activity."

Here are the rules:

• All types of guns will be accepted.
• Gun must be unloaded.
• Gun must be sealed in a plastic bag or box marked "Gifts for Guns."

If you are stopped by a police officer on the way to the event, immediately tell the officer you have a weapon in your possession and are headed to the event.

After the gun is collected by an officer, you will select a gift card of your choice. $100 gift card in exchange for an assault weapon and a $50 gift card for all other guns.

Gift cards are for gas stations, Walmart, Target and other stores and restaurants.