Haverhill's gun buyback program a success

HAVERHILL, Mass. (AP) -- Police say Haverhill's first gun buyback program was a success.

Police say residents turned in 24 handguns, 15 rifles and shotguns, 15 non-working guns, about 200 rounds of ammunition, including some armor-piercing bullets, as well as the Vietnam War-era grenade.

Lt. Robert Pistone says the city handed out gift cards for each weapon turned in.

Mayor James Fiorentini tells The Eagle-Tribune he budgeted $2,500 for gift cards, but demand exceeded expectations. Residents received $50 cards for a working rifle, and $100 cards for working pistols. In all, the city gave out more than $3,000 in gift cards.

Pistone says most people were glad to get rid of the weapons before they fell into the wrong hands.

The guns will eventually be destroyed.