Guns-for-gift cards event to be held in La Mesa this weekend

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with other law enforcement agencies this weekend to get unwanted guns off the streets.

The gun buyback event is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the La Mesa Civic Center, 4825 Date Ave.

Also joining in the effort will be investigators from the District Attorney’s Office, officers from the La Mesa Police Department, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and the Sycuan Tribal Police Department.

Anyone who turns in a working firearm will receive a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns. Assault weapons will be exchanged for a $200 gift card.

Participants will remain anonymous, and officers will not ask questions, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

In addition, free cable locks will be available while supplies last.

Participants must place the unloaded firearms in the trunk of their vehicle and wait for a deputy or officer to provide instructions.

All weapons collected will be destroyed, authorities said.