Baltimore Archdiocese, Police Collect 410 Guns in Record Buyback

The Archdiocese of Baltimore, in partnership with the Baltimore Police Department, held a record-breaking gun buyback event at the Westside Shopping Center, collecting 410 firearms and bringing the total removed over three years to 1,056. The initiative, funded by community and church donations, offers gun owners up to $300 per weapon on a no-questions-asked basis to encourage the removal of firearms that could be used in suicides, domestic violence, or stolen for criminal activity. Alongside the buyback, a community resource fair provided families with essentials like backpacks and toiletries, reflecting the broader goal of fostering a culture of peace in Baltimore. Police officials emphasized that removing unused guns reduces the risk of them falling into the wrong hands and contributing to violence. Despite these efforts, Baltimore continues to face gun violence challenges, with a homicide rate slightly decreased but still significant. The buyback event is part of ongoing attempts to improve public safety and community well-being in the city.