The Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS), in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is holding a Gun Amnesty during the month of April.
The gun amnesty is for any Ontario resident who wishes to voluntarily surrender unwanted or illegally owned firearms, weapons, accessories or ammunition.
According to the CKPS communications officer, Const. Renee Cowell, the amnesty is a way to provide citizens with a safe way to surrender weapons and enhance public safety.
“The goal is ultimately to reduce the number of guns on our streets and in our communities,” Cowell said in a release.
During the amnesty, police will not recommend weapons-related Criminal Code charges that might otherwise apply to people who are turning in these items.
Cowell noted however, there is no amnesty offered for people who turn in weapons that have been used in the commission of a crime. No anonymous submissions will be accepted.
People interested in making an appointment in Chatham-Kent are encouraged to call the Chatham-Kent Police Service at 519-436-6653 to arrange for officers to attend and safely retrieve the weapons.
Those living outside the jurisdiction of Chatham-Kent are urged to call their local police service or OPP.
Under no circumstances should anyone deliver guns or ammunition directly to police facilities, Cowell cautioned.
