Seattle gun buyback fund grows to nearly $120,000
Jan 24, 2013, 4:33 PM | Updated: 4:48 pm
Officials say sponsors have donated nearly $120,000 for this weekend's Seattle gun buy back, the first since 1992. (AP image)
(AP image)
Seattle city officials are prepared to hand out nearly $120,000 in gift cards during this weekend’s gun buyback at a downtown Seattle parking lot.
It’s the first such buyback in Seattle since 1992 when more than 1,100 were turned in.
There are 250-300 million firearms in civilian hands and critics of the buyback question its value. But King County Executive Dow Constantine says it’s well worth it if it prevents even one death.
“A child who’s life is saved by having that gun taken out of the home or off the street can grow up and have a productive life,” Constantine says. “We’re talking about a $100,000 program that if it prevents one shooting will easily pay for itself.”
A handgun, shotgun or rifle gets you a $100 gift card from Amazon,$200 an assault weapon, as defined by the state. The program will also pay for high capacity magazines.
So far, sponsors have donated about $118,000 toward the gun buy back. The biggest donors include Amazon, which is putting up $30,000, Nick and Leslie Hanauer, UW Medical Center and Pemco.
