NYC Destroys Over 3,500 Seized Illegal Firearms

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch oversaw the destruction of 3,375 illegal handguns and 200 rifles. This represents a fraction of the over 21,400 firearms seized since Adams took office.

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The weapons were shredded in a gun chipper, with the resulting scrap metal slated for recycling. Mayor Adams emphasized this action as a significant step in reducing gun violence and ensuring the safety of New York City residents.

A Symbolic Act, But More Work Ahead

While celebrating this achievement, Mayor Adams also acknowledged the ongoing fight against gun violence. He highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve safety and reduce the presence of illegal firearms within the city. The event included a poignant moment where families of gun violence victims were invited to call out the names of their loved ones.

Ghost Guns and the Fight Against Illegal Firearms

Over 1,400 of the seized guns were identified as ghost guns—untraceable, unserialized firearms often produced using 3D printers. These weapons are of particular concern due to their potential to fall into the hands of criminals and underage individuals. The NYPD has recovered nearly 2,000 ghost guns since 2018.

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The recycled metal from the destroyed firearms will be used to create a memorial honoring victims of gun violence at the School of Cooperative Technical Education (Coop Tech).

NYPD's Continued Efforts

The NYPD's Neighborhood Safety Teams, established in March 2022, play a key role in focusing on gun violence prevention. Mayor Adams also underscored his administration's broader strategy, which involves various initiatives to reduce gun violence in the city.