Military-style carbine assault rifles will soon be carried by some front-line officers in Hamilton.
The city’s police services board approved purchase of 26 of the rifles during a meeting on Thursday afternoon, after hearing that “they are often the most practical use of force option.”
Deputy Chief Frank Bergen cited numerous examples including “perimeter coverage in high-risk scenarios” and “encounters with violent criminals known to wear body armour.”
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The business case for the $90,000 purchase says it’s a response to “an increase of incidents with active shooters in Canada” and to ensure that officers are equipped with “the appropriate technology and training.”
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The rifle in question is made by a Kitchener company and is capable of firing rounds with a muzzle velocity of 868 metres per second and is accurate up to 400 metres.
Training will be provided to 16 officers from each division based on previous military or tactical unit experience and use of force qualifications.
Fifteen of the rifles are already used by members of the service’s Emergency Response Unit.
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