Hartford’s corporate, community and law enforcement organizations over the weekend successfully removed some 120 firearms off city streets — 30 percent more than a year ago, authorities say.
Mayor Pedro E. Segarra and Police Chief Daryl K. Roberts both praised the success of the third annual “Gifts for Guns” drive held Saturday, co-sponsored by the city, the office of the Hartford State’s Attorney, the city’s three major hospitals, the Community Renewal Team, and the Connecticut Emergency Nurses Association.
“At a young age I lost my father and two best friends to gun violence, so I am personally aware of how violent crime significantly impacts families and communities,” Segarra said in a statement.
In 2009, the program received 78 weapons, climbing to 89 in 2010, the city said.
Residents received gift cards in exchange for their weapons: $25 for long guns, $75 for handguns, said city spokeswoman Andrea Comer. In all, 29 long guns were secured, 89 handguns, with gift-card payouts totaling $7,400.
Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center also participated.
