FRANCAIS

May 27, 2005

Police forces across the province have joined with the Manitoba government to encourage citizens to turn in weapons during the month of June.

Attorney General Gord Mackintosh said the firearms amnesty will help augment a new prosecution policy that seeks stronger sentences for gun crimes.

"The firearms amnesty and new prosecution policy will assist with both prevention and enforcement," Mackintosh said. "Along with an historic $9.5-million investment of new dollars for policing in Budget 2005, we are taking action to address concerns about increased illegal use of firearms."

Manitobans wanting to dispose of unwanted or illegal weapons have the month of June to make arrangements with local police to pick up the items. For everyone’s safety, weapons are not to be taken to police.

The police will not lay charges unless it is established that the weapon being turned in was used to commit a crime or was stolen. Citizens can arrange for weapons to be picked up by calling the non-emergency number of their local police.

"Many Manitobans may have a rifle or other weapon they’ve inherited that they have no permit or use for, but that they don’t know how to legally dispose of," said Assistant Commissioner Darrell Madill, RCMP "D" Division commanding officer. "Such firearms are often improperly stored and can be accidents waiting to happen."

"Even careful gun owners can unwittingly contribute to the problem of guns on our streets when their weapons are taken in a break-in," said Winnipeg Police Service acting deputy chief of support services Corrine Scott. "It is our hope that people in possession of unwanted firearms will use this opportunity to call us at our non-emergency number so that these weapons can be disposed of safely."

"Even if hard-core criminals may not line up for this, having fewer guns in our homes can help reduce fatal crimes of opportunity and passion that firearms are sometimes used to commit," said Brandon Police Chief Richard Bruce. "The goal of this period of grace is ultimately to save lives, prevent injuries and spare people the trauma of someday being victimized by a gun that should have been destroyed."

On the enforcement side, prosecutors are being directed to place new emphasis on crimes involving firearms. Among other matters, this policy directs prosecutors, as a general rule, to oppose bail on indictable offences involving a loaded firearm, seek a firearm prohibition as a condition of bail where the offence involves a firearm, and not reduce but proceed with charges that carry mandatory sentences where the facts support that charge, said Mackintosh.

The policy also provides statistical information on firearms use and cites useful case law to strengthen court submissions.

"While the focus is on firearms, citizens are encouraged to turn in any and all weapons that could pose a danger to others if they were to fall into the wrong hands," Mackintosh said.

The opportunity to turn items in to police without the likelihood of charges being laid will be in effect from June 1 until June 30.

- 30 -