News Flash

January 15, 2013 - - First Selectman Timothy M. Herbst and Police Chief Thomas Kiely today announced Saturday, January 26, 2013 as a day when the Trumbull Police Department will collect guns, ammunition, and violent video games from Trumbull residents, as part of an overall effort to set the tone for change in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings that occurred last month in Newtown, Connecticut.  This collection will take place at Trumbull Police Headquarters from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  Chief of Police Thomas Kiely indicated that police department personnel trained in the use of firearms will be present to ensure that proper safeguards are in place in the collection of firearms.  “Our police officers are properly trained to handle this type of collection effort and we stand with our friends in Newtown to send a message that as a law enforcement agency, we will do everything in our power on a pro-active basis to voluntarily collect firearms and ammunition from residents willing to offer it,” stated Chief Kiely.  “The First Selectman and I are committed to approaching a solution on the local level and taking whatever steps necessary to make our Town as safe as we possibly can.”  

First Selectman Timothy M. Herbst indicated that the program was made voluntary to allow residents to make the conscious choice to take personal responsibility to set an example.  “While we initially contemplated a buyback program with adjoining municipalities, we have decided to invite the public to voluntarily turn in weapons, ammunition, and violent video games,” stated the First Selectman.  “A voluntary program sends a message that as citizens of this great Town, we believe that we have a moral responsibility to act in ways that demonstrate our core beliefs to take personal responsibility for our actions.  I am grateful that Trumbull can set an example for the rest of Connecticut by demonstrating shared commitment and a conscience effort to turn the page by setting a positive example for our children.”  The First Selectman indicated that in order to turn the page, society needs to change.

The First Selectman stated his belief that in addition to any debate concerning gun control, there should also be a debate on how the entertainment industry tempers its marketing of violence to a very young and fragile population.  “You cannot desensitize acts of despicable brutality by marketing to children horrific violence that is reflected in movies and in video games.  I was repulsed to learn that for at least the last decade, an online video game called ‘Kindergarten Killer’ has been marketed to and accessible to children.  We need to send a message on every level that as a society we will not tolerate this kind of violence.”  The First Selectman indicated that he will work collaboratively with School Superintendent Ralph Iassogna in spreading the word to Trumbull parents that they can drop off video games at police headquarters.

For anyone turning weapons in to the Trumbull Police Department, we ask that the following steps be adhered to:  That all weapons must be unloaded and brought to the front lobby of the Police Department contained in a carrier or suitable bag.  Also, the Actions (bolts, slides, cylinders, etc.) are to be in the open position and any magazines, clips or ammunition being turned in must be placed in a separate bag or container.

This is a voluntary turn-in program and there will be no questions asked.  Receipts will be available upon request.