Lemont Residents Invited to Unload Unwanted Guns at Buy Back

Lemont residents are invited to participate Saturday in the annual Gun Buy Back Program hosted by the South Suburban Association of Chiefs of Police.

Five southern Cook County police departments—Calumet City, Chicago Heights, Riverdale, Midlothian and Dolton—will accept unwanted firearms from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Our law enforcement and community partners look forward to hosting this important program because for all of us, one more weapon off the street means one more live that is potentially saved,” South Chicago Heights Police Chief Bill Joyce said in a press release.

“Collectively, our police agencies hope that the message about gun violence resonates loud and clear, and that residents use this opportunity to become more aware about the dangers and tragedies associated with illegal guns,” Joyce added.

Participants will receive $50 cash for each gun as long as they meet the program requirements. There is a limit of $100 per person regardless of the number of guns turned in. 

All types of firearms will be accepted and must be unloaded and transported in the trunk of the vehicle or inaccessible area of a van or pickup truck, according to instructions issued by police. Participants should enter the secure turn-in site without the firearms so that police officers can accompany them to their cars to retrieve the guns. 

To receive $50, the firearm must be complete and functional. Pellet and BB guns will be accepted but no money will be exchanged for them. Saturday's program will end when the funds are exhausted. 

Those interested in donating to the program should send checks payable to SSACOP to the , 14600 W. 127th St.

Gun Buy Back Sites

• Calumet City Police Department, 1200 Pulaski Road (708-868-2500)

• Chicago Heights Police Department, 1601 S. Halsted (708-756-6400)

• Dolton Police Department, 14014 Park Ave. (708-841-2145)

• Midlothian Police Department, 14801 S. Pulaski Road (708-389-0200)

• Riverdale Police Department, 1725 W. 138th St. (708-841-2203)

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