NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (WCBS 880) -- A total of 57 guns are now off the streets of Westchester County following a buyback program fronted Friday by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The program, which also works with Westchester Executive George Latimer, Westchester DA Mimi Rocah and the New Rochelle Police Department, accepted firearms, no questions asked.
Guns are accepted whether working or not, as long as they’re not loaded, in exchange for compensation.
The AG’s office says the program has taken in more than 2,100 firearms since James assumed office in 2019.
“The threat of gun violence continues to loom over our neighborhoods and endanger our families and children,” said James. “From taking down violent groups responsible for causing harm to hosting gun buybacks and working with organizations addressing this crisis — we are doing everything we can to eradicate gun violence and protect our communities in Westchester and throughout the state.”
Friday's buyback brought in 25 handguns, 20 shotguns and rifles, two assault rifles and a single non-working gun.
In exchange for the firearms, things like prepaid gift cards and iPads were offered up.
The AG’s office said assault rifles could bring in $250, handguns $150, rifles and shotguns $75, and non-working and antique guns $25.
Westchester officials say the county has seen a 370% increase in weapons secured by police since 2017.