Yesterday’s gun buyback program in Schenectady was not just another day at the office; it was a bold move in the ongoing battle against gun violence in New York. As reported by the New York Attorney General’s Office, a total of 367 firearms—including 147 assault weapons, 92 handguns, and 65 long guns—were turned in.
The initiative is part of a broader effort led by Attorney General Letitia James, who has focused on this issue since 2019, bringing the total number of firearms recovered to more than 9,500. James noted in a press release, “Every gun taken off the streets of Schenectady today was a step in the right direction to keep New Yorkers safe.” The strong turnout reflects meaningful progress for local communities, with significant support from law enforcement agencies including the New York State Police, Schenectady County Sheriff’s Office, Schenectady Police Department, and other local departments, all contributing to the operation’s success.
Gun buyback programs have been one of several strategies used by municipalities to reduce the risk of gun-related incidents by removing firearms from circulation. Leaders of the initiative emphasized the value of this approach, with Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy highlighting the effort as a collaborative measure that strengthens the city’s safety efforts. New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James emphasized, “Gun buyback programs can prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands, and are a compliment to our overall strategy to reduce gun violence,” in a statement obtained by the New York Attorney General’s Office…