Bridgeport gun buyback nets more than 500 weapons

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) — A gun buyback program that began last month in Connecticut's biggest city has netted more than 500 weapons, including several dozen assault-style weapons.

Bridgeport city officials say more than $150,000 has been donated in the form of cash and grocery store gift cards to buy guns back from people.

The latest session of the program is taking place on Saturday and Mayor Bill Finch says it will continue for as long as necessary.

Police are offering up to $200 for a working handgun and $75 for rifles.

Over six sessions the public has turned in 539 weapons, with officials paying out $59,350 in return.

The police department allows people to hand in weapons anonymously without fear of being prosecuted for illegal gun possession.