Lynchburg homicide-free in 2009, gun surrender program helping

A gun surrender program in Lynchburg wants criminals with guns to turn them over without the fear of getting in trouble. A team effort between Churches United for Service and the Lynchburg Police Department kicked off the gun surrender program in 2008. So far, they’ve collected 10 guns.

On Tuesday, another gun surrender event was held at Providence Place in Lynchburg. The gun surrender program is also for people who want to get rid of a firearm in their home.  For example, Rev. Charles Lewis was there to turn over a gun his grandson used to commit suicide two years ago.

“If I kept it, I would always be remembering my grandson, you know,” said Lewis.

Dr. James Coleman is with Providence Ministries International, and said he’s talked with the people who have turned in their guns.

“They’re excited to turn them in. Some of them are glad to get rid of them. They’re scared they might be used in a negative way again,” he said.

Those who turn in the guns also have a chance to win a 2000 Chevrolet Impala which has been decorated with flames for trim and has been painted orange and white. The car was a former police cruiser that has now been converted into a decorated, or “tricked out,” car. 

Lynchburg Police pointed out the city hasn’t seen any homicides this year.  Police Chief, Parks Snead, says it’s been “very effective because you have to start somewhere.”

Chief Snead said Lynchburg had four homicides in 2008. Although there hasn’t been any this year, Dr. Coleman says the gun surrender program cannot take full credit.

There haven’t been any deaths but in the last 12 months, guns have been involved in more than 250 cases.

“Crime in Lynchburg is always a fluctuating topic- in any community. We have violent crime in Lynchburg; we have property crime. Levels by my recollection are stabilizing somewhat,” Chief Snead said.

Before Rev. Lewis left, he said, “If we get guns out of criminals hands, our cities and everything will be a whole lot safer.“

People won’t get in trouble for turning in a gun at a gun surrender event. The next event will be on November 5th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of 17th and Monroe Streets.