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San Joaquin County: Give Up A Gun, Get A Gift Card

STOCKTON, Calif. (AP) --San Joaquin County authorities are trying to combat gang violence and make the county a bit safer by offering gift cards to people who turn in their guns.

During an event set for Saturday at Stockton's Ag Center, employees with the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department will be handing out Walmart or Target gift cards in exchange for a firearm.

Deputy Les Garcia says the event is being held in conjunction with the Stockton Police Department, which he says collected 200 guns during a similar event last month.

People turning in their guns will get $10 gift cards for any non-working firearm, $50 for working rifles or shotguns or $100 for working handguns. Assault weapons will fetch a $150 gift card.

Officials say anybody who turns in a weapon will remain anonymous.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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