The law was the result of an effort to establish a uniform statewide police policy on the disposal of weapons collected through forfeiture cases. The law requires that the eligible weapons must be resold rather than destroyed.
According to an article in the Arizona Republic, Peoria Police changed their department’s “policy to comply with the new law, and they expect to begin selling forfeited weapons within the year, according to a department spokeswoman.
Peoria police have confiscated 49 guns since the legislation took effect, and they believe 28 may be eligible to be sold.”
The new law’s proponents argue that Arizona cities are not allowed to create their own ordinances when it comes to other weapons regulations and they say Arizona cities and towns cannot make their own decisions about the disposal of forfeited weapons.”
But that is what it appears Tucson City Councilman, Steve Kozachik wants the Tucson Police Department to do for his politically motivated gun buyback to be held this Tuesday. The Tucson Police Department is not involved in the buyback program, but has been left with the responsibility to receive the weapons turned in.
Tucson Sgt. Maria Hawke told the Republic weapons would not be sold because they are not technically forfeited and therefore not subject to the new law. The Citizens Defense League argues that there are other laws that define property that would in fact prevent the weapons’ destruction.
Kozachik has also asked the State Legislature to repeal Arizona’s Firearm Preemption Statute. The statute prohibits local jurisdictions from passing firearm laws that are more restrictive than state law.
To read the Arizona Republic article click here.
