Erie County, NY – The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents about a key New York State law governing what to do with firearms after the death of a pistol permit holder.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, families have no more than 15 days after a permit holder’s death to turn over any firearms. Under state law, the guns must be transferred either to another licensed pistol permit holder or a federally licensed firearms dealer within that period. After 15 days, the weapons must be surrendered to law enforcement.
The reminder follows a rise in community questions about the process. “It’s a question we’ve recently received from several members of the public,” the department stated in a social media post Tuesday.
Those who find a firearm after a loved one’s death are urged to contact the Erie County Sheriff’s Office at (716) 858-2903. Deputies assigned to the Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Program can guide residents through the legal process and, if necessary, arrange for safe collection of the firearm.
Residents are encouraged to follow the proper procedures to ensure compliance with New York law and prevent unintentional legal violations.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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