Berrien County Prosecutor Amy Byrd is working to reduce gun violence in the community by reminding gun owners how they can ensure their firearms aren’t stolen.

Byrd tells us this is the time of year when we see more gun violence around the county, often involving young people. Many times, the offenders are using stolen guns. So, her office is launching a public awareness campaign for gun owners.

“Hey, these are some things that make you more susceptible to having your firearm stolen or to have your firearm end up in the wrong hands,” Byrd said. “Think about it just to have that mental checklist in your mind. But if you are a registered gun owner, if you do carry concealed, just things you want to think about.”

So, what are some things gun owners can do?

“Around this time of year we see a lot of car break-ins. So people who maybe have a concealed carry permit, like to keep their firearm in their vehicle, if it’s in your driveway, just know it’s gonna be susceptible to being stolen.”

Byrd says people will simply walk through neighborhoods trying to open every car door they can. When one is unlocked, they make off with whatever they can.

Byrd says her office recently dealt with a gun violence case in which the firearm used was reported stolen out of Baroda in 2018. She says her office may have gotten the gun back, but not until it was already used in a crime.