The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is now offering more reward money for tips on illegal guns together with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in an effort to curb gun violence in the District.
MPD’s usual offer, which is currently up to $2,500 in return for information that helps the seizing of an illegal firearm, is now raised to $7,500 through the end of 2021, thanks to the ATF’s addition of up to $5,000.
The announcement came from DC Police Chief Robert Contee, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and ATF Special Agent Charlie Patterson during a press conference at Crispus Attucks Park on Monday.
The move comes as DC police data revealed that the city hit 200 homicides as of November 23, up from 179 recorded in the same period of time in 2020, which corresponds to a 12 percent surge. The homicide count in DC has never been this high since 2004.
The year-end data pertaining to 2020 shows that the District saw a total of 198 homicides last year, with a 19 percent increase from the previous year — when it was 166.
MPD and @ATFWashington have partnered to increase the reward amount of up to $7,500 for a tip leading to an arrest and seizure of a “ghost gun” or illegal firearm outfitted with a Glock switch in the District.
Have information? 202-727-9099/50411 pic.twitter.com/FyPfpDJyRk
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) November 23, 2021
In order to anonymously submit a tip on illegal guns, you can call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411. You can access the Firearm Tip Line 24 hours a day.
After officials are able to verify the accuracy of the information and it results in a firearm recovery and/or arrest, the caller will become eligible for the reward. Callers do not need to identify themselves to receive the payment, which will be made through a single-use debit card through the DC Office of Finance and Treasury. Click here for further details.