Brooklyn DA offers cash rewards for gun surrender to curb shootings and homicides

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The sweltering summer months often see an increase in gun violence in the city, particularly in places like Crown Heights, Brooklyn, which has experienced a rise in shootings and homicides this year.

In response, the Brooklyn District Attorney is leading investigations into gangs and gun trafficking, but now he's also making a personal appeal.  Offering a $500 incentive for people to surrender their operational guns. 

This Cash for Guns has been successful in the past, netting over 400 firearms in the past two years.  The initiative aims to reduce the number of firearms in homes, where they can pose risks, especially to children. 

Tragically, this summer, three children playing with guns were shot in their homes, leading to two deaths, including that of Jasai Guy.

District Attorney Gonzalez emphasizes that many people who surrender guns are not criminals themselves but are concerned about safety. Gonzalez believes these initiatives are crucial in preventing senseless tragedies like accidental shootings at home.

To participate, anyone can surrender their guns anonymously at the Church of the Nazarene on St Johns Place on Saturday from 10am to 4pm.