Halton Regional Police Service will not Participate in Federal Firearms Buyback Program

The Halton Regional Police Board has approved the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) to opt out of the Federal Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP).

This decision is consistent with the approach taken by several large Ontario police services, including the Ontario Provincial Police, York Regional Police and Toronto Police Service.

In approving this direction, the Board and HRPS considered a number of factors, including ongoing uncertainty regarding how the program would operate at the local level. At present, there is limited clarity surrounding program implementation, the management system that would support it, and expectations related to post-amnesty enforcement. The Board also recognized the significant resources that would be required for participation.

“The HRPS will continue to focus on priorities such as addressing serious violent crime and targeting repeat offenders who pose the greatest risk to Halton region,” said HRPS Chief, Stephen Tanner. “We will continue to dedicate our resources to proactive enforcement, targeted investigations, and strategies that have a direct and measurable impact on community safety.”

The HRPS remains committed to enhancing community safety and will continue working with policing partners and all levels of government to reduce gun violence and protect the public.

While the HRPS will not participate in the federal buyback program, residents who wish to surrender prohibited firearms may continue to do so through the Service’s existing Firearms and Weapons Amnesty Program. This program allows individuals to safely and voluntarily turn over firearms and other weapons to police.

Residents of Halton region can arrange for a firearm or weapon pick-up by visiting the HRPS website:

 https://www.haltonpolice.ca/services/firearms-and-weapons-amnesty-program/#ScheduleaFirearm/WeaponPick-up

Residents should not transport any firearms or weapons to district stations or headquarters.

Media Inquiries:
Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations
Phone: 905-825-4899
Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca