WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is receiving funds to combat gun violence in the county.

The Washington state Attorney General’s office announced the nearly $2 million going to 12 law enforcement agencies in the state Thursday, Dec. 12.

Whatcom will see $125,000 for a gun buyback program and firearm storage. The AG says that the money comes from a lawsuit enforcing Washington’s ban on high-capacity magazine sales.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the ban was contested by multiple lawsuits and was overturned by a Cowlitz County judge earlier this year. The ban is still in effect pending the Washington state Supreme Court’s consideration of the case.

Sheriff Donnell Tanksley said the following statement in light of the funds:

“As the Sheriff of Whatcom County, I want to emphasize that combating gun violence is extremely important to me, not only as a law enforcement officer but also on a deeply personal level. Having tragically lost several family members to gun violence, I understand the devastating impact it has on families, communities, and our entire society.

As a community, we must work together to address this critical issue. Gun violence not only claims lives but also erodes the sense of safety and security that is essential for the well-being and quality of life of our residents and visitors.

This award from the Washington State Attorney General will support our efforts to host a gun buy-back program, aimed at removing unwanted firearms from our community and promoting public safety.

Together, we can make a difference and create a safer, more compassionate community for everyone in Whatcom County.”