Bellevue police to host gun buyback event for community safety

BELLEVUE, Wash. — The Bellevue Police Department is set to host a gun buyback event over the weekend.

The BPD plans to offer community members the chance to exchange unwanted firearms for gift cards anonymously and without the need for identification. The event aims to promote gun safety and will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 11201 NE 33rd Place.

Attendees are reminded that handling or exchanging firearms on the event premises is prohibited. Officers will enforce Washington’s firearm transfer laws and may ask individuals to leave if they do not comply, according to the BPD.

Any refusal to leave or actions that interfere with the event’s safety could result in arrest, with patrol officers on standby to ensure the event proceeds smoothly, according to the BPD.

Rules for exchange event include the following:

Each participant may exchange up to 10-eligible firearms for gift cards. Participants may turn in additional firearms but will not receive a gift card.Each participant must show proof of residency in either Bellevue or King County.This event is anonymous. BPD will not record participants’ names or otherwise conduct records checks. Participants may cover their names when showing proof of residency to event staff.Ammunition or firearm cases will not be accepted during this event.Ghost guns and privately made firearms (PMFs) are limited to one gun exchange/gift card per resident.