Kingston Police Service opting out of federal gun buyback program

They join other police forces in Canada who say this will put a burden on existing police resources.

The Kingston Police Service will not be participating in the federal assault-style firearm buyback program.

They along with several other police forces across Canada will not be offering firearm collection or storage appointments under the initiative.

In a news release, Kingston Police Service says the decision is consistent with the positions expressed by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police. 

KPS say both organizations have identified concerns related to the program’s design, implementation, and public safety priorities. They say the program could put a burden on existing police resources especially in areas where there is a high concentration of assault-style weapons.

No jurisdiction is required to participate in the federal assault-style firearm buyback program.

Kingston Police Service says their resources will continue to focus on public safety priorities including investigating criminal firearm use, addressing violent and repeat offenders, and preventing firearm-related harm within the community.

Story by Ken Hashizume