Dozens of weapons taken out of circulation at buyback event

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Sawed off shotgun turned in to police.

POUGHKEEPSIE – Fifty-five weapons, including 15 handguns and six assault-style weapons were turned in to law enforcement in Poughkeepsie on Saturday.  The weapons were exchanged for pre-paid debit cards through State Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James‘ “Gun Buyback Program.”

The attorney general teamed up with the City of Poughkeepsie for Saturday’s buyback program after a very successful event in June of 2021 that resulted in 80 weapons being taken out of circulation.

The program has been endorsed by Poughkeepsie Police Chief Tom Pape, who previously told Mid-Hudson News, “Our city has been subjected to several instances of gun violence and our officers are appreciative of the Attorney General’s efforts to take deadly weapons off the streets.”

The program allows people to turn in any type of firearm without being questioned by police, and no ID is required.  In exchange for the weapon, the person receives a pre-paid debit card with the value dependent on the type of weapon surrendered, ranging from $25 to $250.

  • $250 for assault rifles
  • $150 for handguns
  • $75 for rifles or shotguns
  • $25 for non-working or antique firearms

After the event, Attorney General James said, “From the North Country to Buffalo, the Hudson Valley and Long Island, these gun buyback events are getting dangerous weapons off our streets to help protect all of our communities and save lives. My office is committed to fighting the gun violence epidemic head-on.”

The event was held at the Beulah Baptist Church, where police say Reverend Dr. Jesse Bottoms provides space for them and welcomed the program.

Acting Dutchess County Sheriff Kirk Imperati stopped in to thank the cops from Poughkeepsie, Hyde Park, and his two deputies, along with the attorney general’s staff who worked the detail.

“The City of Poughkeepsie Police are working tirelessly to reduce gun violence and this is one effective program.  The partnership between local law enforcement and the OAG is working and I will provide any support necessary to aid programs that keep the community safe,” said James.

Poughkeepsie Police Officer Kevin Van Wagner, who also serves as the PBA president, worked the detail and was impressed with the number of weapons.  “Our partnership with the Attorney General has taken 135 deadly weapons out of circulation during two brief events.  These guns are no longer a threat to our officers or the community, and we look forward to continuing the partnership.”

Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison was advised of the number of weapons turned in on Saturday and expressed his appreciation.  “A great deal of thanks to the Attorney General’s Office and the City of Poughkeepsie Police for putting another successful buyback together. Those numbers speak for themselves. Its additional safety for the community and our Police Officers.”




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