Mayor hosts 'Good for Guns' in Chester

Chester, PA – In order to get guns off the streets in Chester, Mayor Wendell N. Butler, Jr. and City Council have partnered with Eddystone Shoprite, 100.3 The Beat, 107.9 WRNB, Praise 103.9,and the  Delaware County District Attorney’s Office and Philadelphia Safety Net, to host Goods for Guns on Saturday, August 7, 2010. On that day, participants can drop off up to two guns in exchange for $100 Shoprite gift cards at either Chester Firehouse, located at 320 East 14th Street or 1501 West Third Street from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm. 

With the purpose of getting guns off the streets, the event is being hosted as part of the city’s overall anti-violence effort. In order to encourage participation, no identification is required and no questions will be asked. With a limit of two guns per person, participants can receive up to $200 in Shoprite gift cards. No bb guns, starter pistols, air riffles or flair guns will be accepted. 

“Although we know that it is impossible to get every illegal gun off the street, including those in the hands of criminals, I believe guns are safer in our hands, then out in the domain,” said Mayor Wendell N. Butler, Jr. “For that reason, residents are encouraged to join us on Saturday and turn in their guns for a safer Chester.”

So far this year the Chester Police Department has been able to take more than 90 guns off the streets with assistance from Chester residents. Residents are urged to continue working with police by providing information and to assist the police with arrests of anyone involved with illicit activity, the sale of drugs or possession of guns.

To report illegal activity, residents can call the confidential tip line at 610-447-7810 or fill out a postmarked “crime card” available for pick-up at City Hall or the police station, with any information regarding criminal behavior or the whereabouts of guns