BLUEFIELD, W.Va. (WVDN) – State Treasurer Larry Pack visited Bluefield on Tuesday, April 29 to present the Bluefield Police Department with an unclaimed property check worth more than $23,000 from his Office’s firearms auction held in March.
“Returning this money will allow local law enforcement agencies in West Virginia, like the Bluefield Police Department, purchase new equipment and better serve their communities,” Treasurer Pack said. “It’s an honor to present these funds to our brave men and women who work to protect our citizens every day.”
The Bluefield Police Department on Tuesday received a check valued at $23,022.15 – the largest amount collected from the live onsite firearms auction held in Charleston on March 27.
Bluefield Police Lt. John Whitt said the proceeds will be used to purchase essential equipment such as radios and vehicle gear, helping to enhance officer safety and improve operations.
“We extend our sincere thanks to Treasurer Pack and the State Treasurer’s Office for their partnership and commitment to public safety,” Lt. Whitt said. “Together, these efforts help build a safer, stronger, and more united Bluefield.”
The March firearms auction raised $132,495 to benefit the 18 participating law enforcement agencies, including the Bluefield Police Department. There were 277 lots up for bid consisting of 624 firearms and 700 pounds of ammunition, which made it the largest firearms auction by volume in Office history. The Office has sold a total of $208,160 in firearms including funds generated from two online auctions held in March and April.
Since the fiscal year began on July 1, 2024, the Office’s Unclaimed Property Division has returned more than $30 million to rightful owners, surpassing the $28 million that was returned to rightful owners during Fiscal Year 2024.
For more information about the unclaimed property program or to find out if the Office is holding any money for you, visit www.WVUnclaimedProperty.gov.