Over A Dozen Central Mass. Towns Holding Gun Buyback Programs This Weekend

WORCESTER (AP) — More than a dozen police departments in central Massachusetts are taking part in a gun buyback program this weekend.

People participating in the 15th annual Goods for Guns program on Saturday get a $25 gift card for turning in a rifle; $50 for turning in a handgun; and $75 for turning in a semi-automatic weapon. Replica guns and ammunition will also be accepted and free trigger locks will be available.

Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. says nearly 3,000 firearms have been turned in since 2002, when the program started in the city of Worcester. Over the years, more communities have gotten involved. Fitchburg, Leominster and Dudley are participating for the first time this year.

Police chiefs in the region say the program makes their towns safer.