The Kirkland Police Department is gearing up for a unique event aimed at reducing the number of unwanted firearms in the community. As reported on the city's official website, the Guns for Gift Cards event is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Kirkland Justice Center. This initiative encourages local residents to swap their unused or unnecessary guns for Visa gift cards, which can range in value from $25 to $250.
According to a statement from the City of Kirkland's website, Councilmember Neal Black expressed that "These events are a great incentive for Kirkland residents to voluntarily turn in guns they no longer want or need." Black noted that fewer unwanted guns means a reduced likelihood of accidental injuries and deaths, among other potential dangers. Participants wanting to surrender their firearms will have to prove Kirkland residency with a document such as a utility bill. Police will visually verify this without recording any personal identity details.
To ensure a smooth process, those coming to the event are required to remain in their vehicles while police staff safely retrieve the guns, which must be unloaded and placed out of arm's reach, either in the trunk or the backseat. In exchange for the firearms handed over, participants will then be rewarded with the pre-paid gift cards.
With the limit generally set to 10 firearms per participant, community members may have this number adjusted, wanting to turn in more depending on the crowd's size, the type of firearms collected, and while gift card supplies last. Final decisions regarding the eligibility for gift cards and the amount to be given will be determined by the KPD staff. It's important to note that, for ensuring public safety, security cameras will constantly be filming at the Kirkland Justice Center during the event.
