You might have noticed a legal ad that was published in thisnewspaper on March 22. The ad announced plans by Lincoln County tosell 40 firearms of various types, models and calibers.

These sales are not unusual; most counties conduct them to getrid of surplus property and make a little money for their generalfunds or some specific accounts.

Of course, the county is following the law and selling the gunsonly to individuals who hold federal firearms licenses. But, whocan predict where those weapons might end up once they are nolonger the possession of Lincoln County? The only way for officialsto ensure that these weapons are not used against a Lincoln Countycitizen would be to destroy them.

These particular weapons, as we understand it, ended up in thecounty’s possession through circuit court. Possibly, some havealready been used in the commission of crimes against LincolnCounty residents. Because of this, money from the sale will go intoa fund used by the Lincoln County’s Sheriff’s Department to buyspecial-needs items, such as additional equipment. That’s goodnews. In these tight-budget days, every dollar is important.

If additional weapons sales are held in the future, it wouldalso be nice to see some of the money used to directly help victimsof crimes. Two agencies come to mind. Why not give some of theproceeds to the Lincoln County Crime Stoppers, which gives rewardsfor anonymous tips that help solve crimes, and the Victims’Assistance program operated through the district attorney’soffice?

Too little is done these days to help crime victims. Bolsteringthese programs would be a good start.