Trade Guns For Gift Cards At Buyback Event In Encinitas

ENCINITAS, CA — San Diego County residents can trade in their unwanted guns for gift cards during a Gun Safety Event Saturday at Encinitas City Hall.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department has partnered with the San Diego County District Attorney's Office and the Carlsbad Police Department to get unwanted guns off the streets. Community members can trade in their handguns, rifles and shotguns for $100 gift cards, and assault weapons and ghost guns for $200 gift cards.

Authorities will also provide free gun cable locks and security boxes, while supplies last, to residents looking to secure firearms in their homes.

All weapons collected will be destroyed, according to the sheriff's department. Residents turning in weapons can remain anonymous. Firearms must be in working order, however. Firearms should also be unloaded and placed in the trunk of the vehicle.

The Gun Safety Event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Encinitas City Hall at 505 South Vulcan Ave.