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The Cincinnati Police Department will now store firearms in an initiative meant to reduce gun violence, especially over the holidays.
On Monday, CPD introduced their new “Safe Storage Program,” which allows firearm owners to voluntarily and temporarily store their firearms at a CPD property room for up to six months.
“This out-of-home storage option can be particularly beneficial for individuals in crisis or at risk of suicide, those traveling and needing to secure their firearms, or when family and children are visiting,” CPD said in a press release.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, firearms are the most common suicide method in the United States. More than 50% of suicides in 2022 involved a firearm.
“Gun safety is crucial and taking proactive steps like this can most certainly save lives,” said Police Chief Teresa Theetge. “By offering a secure, temporary storage option, we are doing our part to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands or ending up in our communities. It’s essential that we all work together to ensure safety for our families, neighbors and everyone in Cincinnati.”
The Safe Storage Program is completely voluntary, according to CPD. Firearm owners who want to participate must first set up an appointment with the CPD property room by calling (513) 352-6480. Owners must bring their firearm unloaded to the appointment at 801 Linn Street, as well as a printed and signed firearm storage agreement, proof of firearm ownership and a photo ID.
CPD will hold the weapon for three months, but owners can choose to extend the hold for another three months. After six months, the owner must pick up the firearm.
Cincinnati City Council Member Anna Albi, a vocal gun safety advocate, said the program will save lives, especially this time of year.
“I am thrilled for the city to offer this program, especially ahead of the upcoming holidays,” Albi said.
“This program offers families who may have someone struggling with their mental health an option to store their firearm out of the house to keep their loved ones safe. Or, if you think of grandparents who are maybe hosting kids for the holiday, this provides responsible gun owners a secure storage option to ensure kids aren’t at risk of unintentionally shooting themselves or others. I firmly believe this Safe Storage program can and will help save lives.”
Participants will have to undergo some legal checks during drop-off and pickup. Upon receipt of the firearm, CPD will discharge the gun and check the casing against the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network database. The gun will also be processed through the National Crime Information Center and Ohio’s Law Enforcement Automated Data System. Before picking up your firearm,
CPD will conduct a background check to make sure the owner is not under weapons disability.
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This article appears in Dec 11-24, 2024.