Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont has taken center stage with a bold initiative aimed at enhancing gun safety in the state. In a press conference held on April 30, 2024, U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest outlined the achievements of the GunSafeVT initiative, emphasizing the state’s dedication to secure gun storage and its role in tackling various forms of gun violence.
U.S. Attorney Kerest detailed the initiative’s accomplishments over the past year, including the creation of public service announcements (PSAs) detailing the significance of secure storage, the launch of gunsafevt.org, and the distribution of over 4,000 free cable gun locks across Vermont. The website has been updated with partnerships forged with the Howard Center and libraries for effective lock distribution, with plans to distribute more locks in the upcoming year.
Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark discussed the state’s secure gun storage statute, relief from abuse orders, extreme risk protection orders, and its pivotal role in curbing domestic violence. Mark Margolis of the Howard Center and Dr. Rebecca Bell from UVM Medical Center explained how secure storage can lower the chances of firearm-related suicides. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Resident Agent in Charge Alex Schmidt highlighted the correlation between unsecured firearms and crime rates in Vermont.
This initiative is a collaborative effort among numerous partners, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont, UVM Medical Center, ATF, Vermont State Police, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, the Vermont Sheriffs’ Association, and more. U.S. Attorney Kerest expressed gratitude to all partners, underscoring that secure gun storage not only keeps individuals safe during crises but also prevents guns from falling into the wrong hands.
For more information on the GunSafeVT initiative, visit www.gunsafevt.org.
Related Federal Cases
- Vermont U.S. Attorney’s Office Hits the Streets for Elder Fraud Awareness · Vermont
- Bronx Dealer Wilson Faces 7 Years for Vermont Heroin & Gun Run · New York
- Vermont Man Copped to Drugs, Gun in NH Roadside Bust · New Hampshire
- Vermont Woman Veronica Lewis Faces Gun Charges After Instructor Shooting · Vermont
- Vermont Felon Sentenced to 30 Months for Gun Crime · Vermont
Key Facts
- State: Vermont
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News