Up-Front
Vouchers offeredfor Illegal Firearms
Rotary Club/ Chamber of Commerce
During the entire monthof October, the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, in conjunction withthe Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce, will be offering vouchersvalued at up to CI$500 to anyone turning in an unlicensed firearmto a designated pastor in their local district. The programmeis called "A Farewell to Arms."
The vouchers, which decline in value as the month progreses ($500in Week One, $400 in Week Two, $200 in Week Three, and $100 inWeek Four) are redeemable for goods and services at Chamber membersoutlets.
Also during October, anyone turning in an illegal firearm willreceive both amnesty from prosecution as well as complete anonymity.The penalties for possessing an unlicensed gun in the Cayman Islandsare extremely harsh: Up to 20 years in prison, a $100,000 fine,or both.
During the month of November, Rotary will pay $5,000 to anyoneproviding information leading to the arrest and conviction ofany person in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
Funding of the gun buy-back program, estimated at more than $25,000,is coming from private and corporate contributions as well asa "walk-a-thon," organized by Roteract Acting-PresidentDarren Trickett, which will take place on the SafeHaven grounds.An essay contest for local students is also planned.
Sophia Harris, President of the Rotary Club, said, "Thisis a perfect opportunity for anyone in possession of an illegalfirearm to get on the right side of the law and, at the same time,get paid in valuable vouchers to do so. Please join us in ourefforts to make Cayman truly a gun-free society."