Over 60 Weapons Turned In During Gun Safety Event In San Diego County

VISTA, CA — Dozens of firearms were collected during a gun safety event over the weekend in San Diego's North County.

A total of 62 unwanted weapons were turned in by the public Saturday at North County Superior Court at 325 South Melrose Drive, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.

People received $100 gift cards for handguns, rifles and shotguns, and $250 gift cards for assault weapons, sheriff's officials said. Deputies also provided free firearm lock boxes and trigger locks to anyone who wanted one.

All weapons collected will be processed, and any firearms found to have been involved in a crime will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency, officials said. If any guns are found to be stolen, the original owners will be contacted. All remaining weapons will be destroyed.

The sheriff's office hosted the event in partnership with the city of Vista, Oceanside Police Department, San Diego County District Attorney's Office and San Diegans for Gun Prevention Violence to get unwanted guns off the streets.

People can always turn in their unwanted weapons at any sheriff's station, substation, or any law enforcement agency. Sheriff's officials said residents should keep the gun in the trunk of their vehicle and await further instructions from a deputy.

Residents with questions about turning in weapons can call the sheriff's non-emergency line at 858-868-3200.