Hamilton

Police collect 374 guns and 19K rounds of ammo in amnesty

Hamilton police’s firearms amnesty program nets 374 guns and 19,700 rounds of ammunition, police announced Monday.

The first weapon turned in was an 1871 Snider Enfield Rifle

The first weapon to be turned in to Hamilton police's amnesty program was was an 1871 Snider Enfield Rifle (right), and the last was an AK-46 assault rifle. (Courtesy Hamilton Police)

Hamilton police’s firearms amnesty program has netted 374 guns and 19,700 rounds of ammunition, police announced Monday.

The first weapon to be turned in was an 1871 Snider Enfield Rifle, and the last was an AK-46 assault rifle.

Here are the numbers:

  • 262 long arms (shotguns and rifles)
  • 112 handguns (pistols and pellet guns)
  • 19,700 rounds

Officers went to 227 homes to collect the firearms — and most were not secured or stored properly, police say.

“The number one goal of our amnesty program is enhancing public safety,” said Hamilton Police Chief Glenn De Caire. “By removing unwanted firearms it eliminates the possibility of them being stolen in the event of a break-in.”

“We thank everyone who partnered with us to make our city safer.”

Though the program is done, police are reminding people that unwanted firearms can be turned in at any time by calling 905-546-4925.