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Gun amnesty nets scores of unwanted firearms

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Scores of weapons were turned in to area police services during a month-long gun amnesty program in April.

The provincewide initiative was spearheaded by the OPP to get illegal and unwanted guns off the street.

Brantford police said 43 firearms were turned in, while OPP detachments in Brant, Norfolk and Haldimand counties took in more than 60 firearms.

"There were a variety of weapons," said OPP spokesperson Const. Ed Sanchuk.

"Lots of long guns, a replica handgun bought at Sears 40 years ago, a single-shot black powder gun and a very old side-by-side double-barrelled shotgun."

In Brantford, the haul included 22 rifles, one handgun, 20 replica firearms and 1,359 rounds of ammunition.

Sanchuk said that about a half-dozen items were turned in to Brant OPP, including a .22 Rimfire rifle, a Cooey .39 bolt-action rifle, an antique .22 and a pellet gun.

In Norfolk, about 40 pieces were handed over, while about 20 items were turned in to Haldimand OPP.

Other guns surrendered included 12-gauge shotguns, .22 calibre rifles, a semi-automatic rifle and an AR-7 rifle.

People also surrendered ammunition for various weapons, air pistols, starter pistols, trigger locks and a machete.

For the whole month of April, residents could voluntarily surrender unwanted or illegally owned firearms, weapons, accessories or ammunition without risking legal repercussions. During the amnesty period, police won't pursue weapons-related charges as long as the guns had not been used to commit a crime.

"We find people (criminals) target homes for their firearms," said Sanchuk. "So, if you're not using your firearms, this was an opportunity to turn them in so they're properly disposed of. A few might be used for education purposes but almost all will be destroyed."

Sanchuk said the amnesty program reduces the number of guns in the hands of criminals.

"Almost all of the guns turned in were from residents who wanted these weapons out of their house."

Sanchuk said there were a few incidents where gun owners didn't heed the police warning about not bringing items to the police station.

"That should never happen. We always ask that you call the police and we'll come and pick up your firearms."

Residents can still ask the police to retrieve unwanted firearms or replicas.

Call the Brantford police non-emergency line at 519-756-7050 or contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and be directed to the correct detachment.

SGamble@postmedia.com

@EXPSGamble

Brantford Expositor 2018 ©

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