King County looks to curb rising gun violence with voluntary firearm return program

King County wants fewer guns in circulation as the Puget Sound area grapples with a spike in both the total number of shots fired and victims of gun violence.

In 2021, the county experienced a year over year 70% increase in shooting victims, according to the King County Prosecutor’s Office.

Those statistics, in conjunction with a spate of recent national mass shootings that have drawn increased attention to the issue of gun control, have prompted the King County Council’s consideration of a gun buyback program.

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In practice, the program would allow the year-round return of guns and ammunition to King County Sheriff’s Office precincts. King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski introduced the legislation earlier this week.

“Reducing the number of guns in circulation will reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths caused by guns,” Dembowski said. “And we know from past experience that people welcome the opportunity to turn unwanted guns over to a responsible part for disposal. This program will make that resource available to residents countywide.”

A gun buyback program would not be new for either King County or the City of Seattle. In 2013, 716 firearms were turned in to King County. In 1992, 1,172 firearms were turned in to Seattle.

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