News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Livingston Police Department will update its firearms with the purchase of some $54,000 in new equipment
Chief Ray Smith said they plan to purchase 15 patrol rifles, 10 of which will be “less than lethal” weapons. Smith said because of their effectiveness, he hopes to get one in every car.
“It’s like a bean bag and a lot of times it can stop an assailant where you don’t have to use deadly force,” Smith said. “Deadly force is not always the answer. It’s just a stronger force to stop whatever is taking place and to subdue and restrain and then get into custody. We’re not out here every day looking to end up having to use deadly force.”
Smith said the department will also purchase six new pistols to replace some outdated ones. As far as other equipment, Smith said they are also looking at purchasing new body armor and getting new uniforms.
Smith said the tool he is particularly excited to explore obtaining is the training simulator. He said that ways when various situations arise they can always make sure officers are referring to the training they’ve received.
“Any kind of thing can be created out in the field we can recreate it in a controlled environment and give ourselves an opportunity to go through that situation a controlled environment and train on it,” Smith said. “(…) And this training aid is something that has come in our area and we now have the opportunity to purchase this to help further our training with our officers. “
