Church Gun Buyback Aims to Reduce Violence | Albany News

Victory Church in Albany is launching a bold gun buyback program to curb violence, fueled by recent troubling incidents like homicides and teen weapon arrests—even as overall crime dips. Pastor Charlie Muller, backing a new violence prevention task force, credits community hubs like the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club alongside direct action for steering youth toward safety. Their last buyback collected 140 guns, funded by the DA’s office and timed with zero handgun-related murders. Muller counters skepticism by sharing real stories: a teen anonymously surrendering a gun, a mom turning in a weapon while her son was in a gang. These grassroots efforts aim to remove weapons and offer alternatives—critical steps toward a safer Albany for all. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e2eb9a25a2a5db70