Have a Gun? Police Will Buy it for $100

Howard County police are offering residents $100 per gun if they bring it to the Dorsey Building in Columbia on March 16.

Guns dropped off at the event will be destroyed and funds to pay for them will come from money seized in drug investigations, according to police.

“This is truly about safety,” said Police Chief William J. McMahon, in a statement. “If you have a gun in your home that you no longer want, we will help you eliminate the possibility that it could be used in a way you never intended.”

Those participating in the event will remain anonymous, and police said they will not ask for identification at the event. Police will buy any complete firearm, but not gun parts or pellet/BB guns.

Residents who bring a gun to the event have been asked to keep the gun, unloaded and locked, inside their trunk; a police officer will take it out while the gun’s owner remains in his or her vehicle.

Individuals may turn in up to three firearms, according to police.

In addition, everyone who attends the event will receive a free gun lock, even if they don’t turn in a weapon, said police.

If police find a stolen gun, they will complete an investigation to see if it has been used in a crime, and if not, will attempt to return it to its rightful owner.

The event takes place on Saturday, March 16, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Dorsey Building located at 9250 Bendix Road, Columbia.