Law enforcement holding gun safety event next weekend

Anyone who turns in a working firearm will receive a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns, or $200 for an assault rifle.

Law enforcement holding gun safety event next weekend
Sheriff's deputies
Sheriff's deputies
Sheriff’s deputies exchange guns for firearms at North County “gun safety” event. Courtesy San Diego Sheriff’s Department.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with other law enforcement agencies next weekend in an effort to get unwanted guns off the streets.

The gun safety event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the La Mesa Civic Center, 4825 Date Avenue.

Also joining in the effort will be investigators from the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, officers from the La Mesa Police Department, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Division of Adult Parole Operations, and the Sycuan Tribal Police Department.

Anyone who turns in a working firearm will receive a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns. Assault weapons will be exchanged for a $200 gift card.

Participants will remain anonymous and officers will not ask questions, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

In addition, free cable locks will be available while supplies last.

Participants must place the unloaded firearms in the trunk of their vehicle and wait for a deputy or officer to provide instructions.

All weapons collected will be destroyed, authorities said.