New Gun-Surrender Program Allows Anonymity

A monthlong plan allowing gun owners to turn in firearms at any sheriff’s station with no questions asked--and without revealing their identities--began Sunday, and reports were that several weapons, including two handguns, had been voluntarily surrendered.

Sheriff Sherman Block and Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, who are co-sponsoring the program, said all weapons received will be melted down.

A Sheriff’s Department spokesman said that by early Sunday afternoon, three stations--Lakewood, Industry and West Hollywood--had reported receiving weapons. The Sheriff’s Department has long accepted guns for disposal, but customarily asked the owner’s name. By allowing anonymity, the hope is that more firearms will be surrendered.

Those wishing to participate in the program are asked to call the sheriff’s station where they plan to go and inform deputies that they are going to turn in a gun. The weapon should be unloaded and locked in the owner’s trunk. At the station, gun owners are asked to let deputies retrieve the weapon rather than bringing it inside themselves.

Anyone unable to unload the bullets from a weapon should call the sheriff’s office. A deputy will be sent to pick it up. The program lasts through June 8.