Hundreds Of Firearms Turned In During Gun Take-Back Event In North County

SAN MARCOS, CA — Hundreds of firearms were collected during a gun safety event over the weekend in northern San Diego County.

A total of 266 unwanted weapons were turned in by the public Saturday at the San Marcos Sheriff's Station, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.

People received $100 gift cards for handguns, rifles and shotguns, and $200 gift cards for assault weapons, sheriff's officials said. Free firearm lock boxes and trigger locks were also given out 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 gun take-back event in partnership with the Carlsbad Police Department, Escondido Police Department, Oceanside Police Department, Palomar College Police Department, University Police Department at Cal State San Marcos, and the San Diego County District Attorney's Office.

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.