246 weapons collected in San Dimas "Gifts for Guns"

SAN DIMAS -- The "Gifts for Guns" collection in San Dimas was a success Saturday, authorities said, as 246 guns, including half a dozen assault weapons, were gathered, officials said.

The exchange, in which people trade firearms for gift cards good at local retailers, took place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., officials said.

The event, initially scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., started an hour early as people were already lining up, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Craig Boyett said.

More than $24,000 worth of gift cards from retailers such as Walmart, Target and grocery stores were handed out, he said.

Deputies paid $100 in gift cards for most working rifles and handguns, $50 worth for non-functioning guns and $200 worth for assault weapons, Boyett said.

For information on future Gifts for Guns exchanges, visit the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Web site at www.lasd.org.