In a continued push to curb gun violence and keep communities safe, local and state officials are teaming up for a major gun buyback event this weekend in Jamaica.
The NYPD, in partnership with the offices of New York State Attorney General Letitia James and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, will host the event on Saturday, June 14, at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral – Shekinah Chapel, located at 111-54 Merrick Blvd. in Jamaica. The program will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers cash cards in exchange for firearms, no questions asked.
Residents who turn in operable handguns or assault rifles will receive a $500 bank card, while ghost guns or 3D-printed firearms will be exchanged for $200. Operable rifles or shotguns are worth $75, and airguns, non-operable handguns and imitation pistols will be accepted for $25.
Guns must be brought in unloaded and placed in a plastic or paper bag or a shoe box. If arriving by car, the firearms must be stored in the trunk. Participants can surrender up to three firearms or two ghost guns per person to be eligible for the full cash card limit.
Payment will be issued on-site after the firearms are screened and confirmed to meet the criteria. The program does not accept firearms from active or retired law enforcement officers or licensed gun dealers.
Officials emphasize that the program is completely anonymous, with no ID required and no questions asked.
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Queens District Attorney’s Office to remove illegal and potentially dangerous weapons from city streets while providing a safe, voluntary path for residents to dispose of firearms.
