ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — For the first time, the Arlington Heights Police Department is participating in a firearm disposal event, also known as the “Gun Buy-Back Program,” Saturday at its Community ZERO Harm event.
The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will also include other services like a drug take-back, child safety seat inspections, bicycle safety, impaired driving and behavioral health education. The free event is open to the public and will take place in the parking lot at St. Simon’s Episcopal Church, 717 W. Kirchoff Road. The location is immediately adjacent to the Northwest Community Hospital campus, according to organizers.
With an initiative to reduce the overall number of unwanted guns in circulation and those which may be illegally possessed, the AHPD is offering $100 cash to anyone surrendering a gun. Participants will remain anonymous and will not be asked any questions about themselves or an associated firearm.
Surrounding police departments, including Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Palatine and Rolling Meadows will also participate, along with NCH and St. Simons.
“Our goal is to maintain an open dialogue with our community about improving the quality of life through avoidance of risks and hazards which can cause harm to individuals, often times unintentionally,” AHPD Chief Nicholas A. Pecora, Jr. said.
Officials said funding for the program comes from an asset forfeiture program, as well as capital seized from individuals involved in criminal activity and “ultimately contributing to community harm.”
————————————————
