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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Get rid of a gun and get a gift card. That was the incentive behind the 2022 Guns for Gift Cards program on Saturday intended to help make Boston's streets safer.
Anyone who wanted to dispose of a firearm could bring them to various designated drop-off areas throughout the city from 10 A.M to 4 P.M. and receive a $100 gift card in exchange.
There were six different drop-off locations in churches and community centers around the city.
"We're thankful for everybody who is participating and for all our partners in this aim to make our streets safer and more secure," Boston Police Deputy Superintendent Ed Chrispin told WBZ's Mike Macklin.
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At the drop-off locations, those who turned in guns were not asked for ID to keep the process anonymous.
"The only thing we tried to ascertain is whether or not you live in the city and if you do no questions asked we will provide you a gift card and take over any functioning handguns that you have," Chrispin said.
Police said 20 guns were turned in within the first two hours of the program. Rifles and Shotguns were accepted at the drop-off locations, but no gift cards were issued to owners.
WBZ's Mike Macklin reports:
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