Halton police opt out of federal firearm buy-back program

The Halton Regional Police Service has announced they will not participate in the federal Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program.

The decision was approved by the Halton Regional Police Board, saying it’s consistent with the approach taken by other large police services around Ontario – including Ontario Provincial Police, York Regional Police and Toronto Police Service.

Halton police officials considered a number of factors when making their decision, including how the program would operate at a local level. They say clarity surrounding how the program would be implemented is limited.

The management system needed to support the program and expectations of post-amnesty enforcement are also unclear. Also considered was the significant resources the program would require if they participated.

Halton authorities add that residents wishing to surrender prohibited firearms can continue to do so through the service’s existing Firearms and Weapons Amnesty Program – individuals can safely and voluntarily turn over firearms and other weapons to police.

More information about the Halton police program can be found on their website.

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