The New York City Police Department posted video on X Monday of firearms seized in stings and investigations being burned until they melted. Bound weapons went into a furnace and the resulting liquid metal moved from one vessel to another.

CNNMoney reported in 2009 that 11 states barred destruction of such guns. Arizona requires police to sell court-adjudicated confiscated weapons to licensed dealers so the public can buy them, according to a December 17, 2025 12 News report.