FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK: Discovered Handguns Lead to Lesson

A family member recently passed away, and we found a box of old handguns in his house.

We didn’t know the history of these weapons, or even if our family member knew they were in the house. You can only make assumptions, and I know that you can’t make assumptions when dealing with a firearm.

I really didn’t know what to do. At that time I didn’t own a pistol permit and I really had no idea what the history of these firearms were. The one thing you do not want to do is throw a box of found handguns in the garbage or drive them anywhere in your own car. So I called the Sheriff’s Office and asked him what is the procedure.

To my surprise, it was actually an incredibly smooth process.

The Sheriff’s Office sent out Deputy Gerace who inspected the weapons, logged them, and transported them to the Sheriff’s safe to be held while the serial numbers were researched. They conducted a background investigation and upon its completion, the pistols were transported by the Sheriff’s Office to a local gun dealer and placed on a proper pistol permit.

The headaches I had anticipated were a mirage. The Sheriff’s Office handled the matter and made the experience a smooth process without adding to the stress in handling the matters of a deceased loved one.

The message is this. If you find a handgun, or any gun for that matter, don’t make an assumption and get it checked out by calling (585) 243-7100.  You not only will be saving yourself from any potential legal issues but you will also be helping to protect the community by preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.