LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Metro Police Department, Kentuckiana Crime Stoppers and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Louisville Division are teaming up for a new initiative focused on gun safety.

The initiative will pay up to a $3,000 reward for information leading to arrest and seizure of stolen firearms. Tips can be made anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers tip line at 502-582-CLUE (2583) or online. If a tip qualifies for a reward, Crime Stoppers will give instructions on how to collect payment.

“ATF’s top priority is protecting the public from violent crime, and that includes focusing on the sources of crime guns,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow.

According to ATF, stolen firearms are a major source of crime guns.

“Every day, our police officers and special agents encounter criminals armed with stolen firearms. Too often, stolen guns are used to commit violent crimes in our communities,” said Morrow.

“We’re offering $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of a suspect in possession of a stolen firearm. ATF has pledged to match our reward”, said Dave Yates, coordinator of Kentuckiana Crime Stoppers. 

If information leading to an arrest yields more than one stolen firearm, an additional $500 per firearm will be paid, with a maximum possible payout of $3,000.

The initiative aims to combat firearms theft and improve public safety across the region. The three sponsoring organizations also emphasized the importance of safe gun storage and keeping firearms out of the hands of those who should not possess them.