BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor

On Saturday, the Tampa Police Department held the first gun buy back in several years. The event was successful with more than 1,000 guns turned in.

Ms. Janelle McGregor, spokesperson for the Tampa Police Department said, “We haven’t held a gun buy back in several years. The turnout was overwhelming because we set a goal of 500 guns and we easily doubled that. It was definitely a success with more than 1,000 guns taken off the street that had the potential of falling into the wrong hands.”

The Gun Buy Back took place at the Seminole Heights Baptist Church, 801 E. Hillsborough Avenue from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Individuals surrendering guns received $50 per gun.

Members of City Council unanimously approved $25,000 for the Gun Buy Back. In the past, those surrendering weapons were given gift cards to participating department stores.

The Gun Buy Back was part of the “Stop The Violence” Initiative that came into existence after a rash of violent crimes took place in Hillsborough County.

Ten murders took place during a 14-day period in November. Some of those homicides involved teenagers. Additionally, several individuals survived shootings.

In addition to the Gun Buy Back, members of the community gathered at Greater Mount Carmel A. M. E. Church for a “Stop The Violence From Dope To Hope March.” The march ended at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. A Candlelight Vigil followed the march.