HomeMy WebLinkAboutE-8 Staff Report - 2024 AB 481 Military Equipment CONSENT ITEM
E-8
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
VIA: SERGIO GONZALEZ, CITY MANAGER
FROM: ROCKY WENRICK, CHIEF OF POLICE
DATE: JUNE 3, 2024
SUBJECT: ANNUAL UPDATE TO COUNCIL ON MILITARY EQUIPMENT PURSUANT TO
CALIFORNIA AB 481
BACKGROUND:
Assembly Bill 481 (“AB 481”), codified at Government Code sections 7070 through 7075, requires the
Azusa Police Department (“Department”) to obtain annual approval from City Council of its military
equipment use policy (“Policy”) in order to continue the use of previously acquired military equipment.
The term “military equipment,” as used in AB 481, does not necessarily indicate equipment used by the
military. Items deemed to be “military equipment” include, but are not limited to, unmanned aerial or
ground vehicles, armored vehicles, command and control vehicles, pepper balls, less lethal shotguns,
less lethal 40mm projectile launchers, long range acoustic devices, and flashbangs. The list of items
considered “military equipment” by AB 481 are employed by many law enforcement agencies across the
country as best practices to enhance citizen and officer safety. Provided as an attachment to this staff
report is the updated inventory list of military equipment that the department maintains, in accordance
with Government Code section 7072. The use of the military equipment identified on the inventory list
is vital to the Department’s mission and will continue to be strictly regulated through internal processes
and oversight.
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following action(s):
1) Approve an “Annual Military Equipment Use Inventory Report; and
2) Approve the AB 481 Military Equipment Use Policy.
Approved
City Council
June 3, 2024
AB 481 Annual Military Equipment Use Inventory Report
June 3, 2024
Page 2
ANALYSIS:
The city of Azusa has adopted a Military Equipment Use Policy, in accordance with AB 481. A copy of
the Policy is included as an attachment to this staff report. In order for the Department to continue using
the equipment authorized under the Policy, the Department must submit an Annual Report to City
Council, that includes the following: 1) A summary of how the military equipment was used and
purpose of its use. 2) A summary of any complaints or concerns received concerning the military
equipment. 3) The results of any internal audits, any information about violations of the military
equipment use policy, and any actions taken in response. 4) The total annual cost for each type of
military equipment, including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation, maintenance, storage,
upgrade, and other ongoing costs, and from what source funds will be provided for the military
equipment in the calendar year submission of the annual military equipment report. 5) The quantity
possessed for each type of military equipment. 6) If the law enforcement agency intends to acquire
additional military equipment in the next year, the quantity sought for each type of military equipment.
The Department is committed to utilizing equipment that helps to safeguard the community and reduce
the risk of escalating volatile situations that might rise to the level of a lethal encounter.
The adopted Policy provides safeguards to the public’s safety, welfare, and civil rights and ensures
transparency, oversight and accountability measures are in place.
The Azusa Police Department webpage will be utilized for distribution of any updates to the above
materials as well as for this Annual Report.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is not fiscal impact associated with the approval and filing of the annual report.
Prepared by: Reviewed and approved:
Brandon Bailey Sergio Gonzalez
Sergeant City Manager
Reviewed and Approved:
Rocky Wenrick
Chief of Police
Attachments:
1) Military Equipment Use Policy
2) 2024 Equipment Inventory Update
Policy
705
Azusa Police Department
Azusa PD Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Azusa Police Department ***DRAFT***Military Equipment - 1
Military Equipment
705.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the approval, acquisition, and reporting
requirements of military equipment (Government Code § 7070; Government Code § 7071;
Government Code § 7072).
705.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include (Government Code § 7070):
Governing body – The elected or appointed body that oversees the Department.
Military equipment – Includes but is not limited to the following:
•Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles.
•Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers.
•High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), two-and-one-half-ton trucks,
five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached.
•Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants.
•Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the
operational control and direction of public safety units.
•Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind.
•Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature. This
does not include a handheld, one-person ram.
•Firearms and ammunition of_.50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotguns
and standard-issue shotgun ammunition.
•Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than_.50 caliber, including firearms and
accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code §
30515, with the exception of standard-issue firearms.
•Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles.
•Noise-flash diversionary devices and explosive breaching tools.
•Munitions containing tear gas or OC, excluding standard, service-issued handheld
pepper spray.
•TASER® Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and long-range acoustic
devices (LRADs).
•Kinetic energy weapons and munitions.
•Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require
additional oversight.
Attachment 1
Azusa Police Department
Azusa PD Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Azusa Police Department ***DRAFT***Military Equipment - 2
705.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Azusa Police Department that members of this department comply with the
provisions of Government Code § 7071 with respect to military equipment.
705.3 MILITARY EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR
The Chief of Police should designate a member of this department to act as the military equipment
coordinator. The responsibilities of the military equipment coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a)Acting as liaison to the governing body for matters related to the requirements of this
policy.
(b)Identifying department equipment that qualifies as military equipment in the current
possession of the Department, or the equipment the Department intends to acquire
that requires approval by the governing body.
(c)Conducting an inventory of all military equipment at least annually.
(d)Collaborating with any allied agency that may use military equipment within the
jurisdiction of Azusa Police Department (Government Code § 7071).
(e)Preparing for, scheduling, and coordinating the annual community engagement
meeting to include:
1.Publicizing the details of the meeting.
2.Preparing for public questions regarding the department’s funding, acquisition,
and use of equipment.
(f)Preparing the annual military equipment report for submission to the Chief of Police
and ensuring that the report is made available on the department website (Government
Code § 7072).
(g)Establishing the procedure for a person to register a complaint or concern, or how that
person may submit a question about the use of a type of military equipment, and how
the Department will respond in a timely manner.
705.4 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
The following constitutes a list of qualifying equipment for the Department:
[Insert attachment here]
705.5 APPROVAL
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by
way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the
Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is
submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 days prior
to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071). The
military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body prior to engaging in any of the
following (Government Code § 7071):
Azusa Police Department
Azusa PD Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Azusa Police Department ***DRAFT***Military Equipment - 3
(a) Requesting military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a.
(b) Seeking funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant,
soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other
donations or transfers.
(c) Acquiring military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing
or leasing.
(d) Collaborating with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of
military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department.
(e) Using any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person
not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Soliciting or responding to a proposal for, or entering into an agreement with, any other
person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the
use of military equipment.
(g) Acquiring military equipment through any means not provided above.
705.6 COORDINATION WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS
Military equipment should not be used by any other law enforcement agency or member in this
jurisdiction unless the military equipment is approved for use in accordance with this policy.
705.7 ANNUAL REPORT
Upon approval of a military equipment policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee should
submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment
approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment
is available for use (Government Code § 7072).
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee should also make each annual military equipment
report publicly available on the department website for as long as the military equipment is
available for use. The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072
for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in department inventory.
705.8 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the Department shall hold
at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which
the Department should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding,
acquisition, or use of military equipment.
MILITARY EQUIPMENT TYPES AND USAGE GUIDELINES
The Department recognizes that critical incidents are unpredictable and can be very dynamic in
nature. A variety of military equipment options can greatly assist incident commanders, officers,
and specific units in bringing those incidents to a swift resolution in a safe manner. The use of
military equipment is restricted for use only in certain instances and in some cases only by certain
units. While this procedure is wide-ranging, it is not all inclusive. There may be instances wherein
unpredictable critical incidents demand the need for incident commanders to authorize military
equipment to be used in a manner not outlined within this procedure. In scrutinizing those
particular instances, the judgment of the incident commander influenced by the totality of the
circumstances, public safety, officer safety, civil rights, and information available at the time will
be used. It is incumbent upon incident commanders, supervisors, individual officers, and specific
units to recognize the particular circumstances wherein military equipment should be employed to
enhance the safety of the public and officers, and to bring a critical incident to a safe resolution.
The following are the various types, descriptions, and guidelines for usage of military equipment
currently employed by the Department.
A. Unmanned remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles
Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS): An unmanned aircraft of any type that is capable of
sustaining directed flight, whether pre-programmed or remotely controlled, and all of the
supporting or attached systems designed for gathering information through imaging, recording or
by any other means. Capability: sUAS can support first responders in any hazardous incident
which would benefit from an aerial perspective. These uses could include search and rescue,
barricaded suspects or high-risk tactical operations, disaster response, and video and photographic
documentation of crime scenes.
Usage
sUAS are to be used by trained pilots during high-risk operations, tactical operations, disaster
response, and video and photographic documentation. These pilots receive regular training and
flight hours and when applicable adhere to FAA regulations.
The Department currently possesses the following types of sUAS:
DJI Phantom 4 Pro
Equipment:
Unmanned air systems.
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities:
The Azusa Police Department has three DJI Phantom 4 Pro unmanned aircraft which are remote
controlled quadcopters commercially available to both civilians and government agencies. The
Attachment 2
aircrafts have 4k cameras which take still and video photography, and have a flight time of roughly
thirty minutes. The aircrafts have autonomous flight modes as well as manual controls.
Purpose:
The aircraft are used to supplement traditional helicopter service where the length of an operation
makes the flight of a traditional helicopter too costly. In addition, the aircraft can be available
within minutes, while traditional helicopter service has out of service hours where they are not
available to assist with patrol and SWAT operations.
Authorized Use:
Unmanned aircraft are used in public spaces and follow department policies which are geared
toward maintaining the integrity of citizen privacy. Search warrants must be obtained in order to
be used in non-public spaces.
Expected Lifespan:
The expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Fiscal Impact:
All three drones were purchased using an unknown funding type (records were locked in a cyber-
attack) of approximately $4500. The annual maintenance cost is estimated between $0 and $1000,
depending on the condition of the batteries.
Training:
All unmanned air system pilots are required to pass the FAA Part 107 competency test.
Additionally, they receive quarterly training for the duration of their time as a pilot.
Legal and Policy Rules:
The use of unmanned air system is governed under Azusa Police Department Policy 606, which
stipulates that the aircraft are to be used in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
DJI Matrice 210
Equipment:
Unmanned air system.
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities:
The Azusa Police Department has one DJI Matrice 210 unmanned aircraft which is a remote
controlled quadcopter commercially available to both civilians and government agencies. The
aircraft has a 4k camera which takes still and video photography, as well as a forward looking
inferred camera. The aircraft has a flight time of roughly thirty eight minutes (no payload). The
aircraft has autonomous flight modes as well as manual controls.
Purpose:
The aircraft are used to supplement traditional helicopter service where the length of an operation
makes the flight of a traditional helicopter too costly. In addition, the aircraft can be available
within minutes, while traditional helicopter service has out of service hours where they are not
available to assist with patrol and SWAT operations.
Authorized Use:
Unmanned aircraft are used in public spaces and follow department policies which are geared
toward maintaining the integrity of citizen privacy. Search warrants must be obtained in order to
be used in non-public spaces.
Expected Lifespan:
The expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Fiscal Impact:
This drone was purchased using state funding of $22,112. The annual maintenance cost is
estimated between $0 and $2000, depending on the condition of the batteries.
Training:
All unmanned air system pilots are required to pass the FAA Part 107 competency test.
Additionally, they receive quarterly training for the duration of their time as a pilot.
Legal and Policy Rules:
The use of unmanned air system is governed under Azusa Police Department Policy 606, which
stipulates that the aircraft are to be used in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
DJI Matrice 350 Drone
Equipment:
Unmanned air system
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities:
The Azusa Police Department has two DJI Matrice 350 unmanned aircrafts which are remote
controlled quadcopters commercially available to both civilians and government agencies. The
aircrafts have 4k cameras which take still and video photography, and have a flight time of roughly
thirty minutes. The aircrafts have autonomous flight modes as well as manual controls.
Purpose:
The aircraft are used to supplement traditional helicopter service where the length of an operation
makes the flight of a traditional helicopter too costly. In addition, the aircraft can be available
within minutes, while traditional helicopter service has out of service hours where they are not
available to assist with patrol and SWAT operations.
Authorized Use:
Unmanned aircraft are used in public spaces and follow department policies which are geared
toward maintaining the integrity of citizen privacy. Search warrants must be obtained in order to
be used in non-public spaces.
Expected Lifespan:
The expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Fiscal Impact:
Both of these drones were purchased using city funding of $22,112, which was allocated to capital
improvement. The annual maintenance cost is estimated between $0 and $2000, depending on the
condition of the batteries.
Training:
All unmanned air system pilots are required to pass the FAA Part 107 competency test.
Additionally, they receive quarterly training for the duration of their time as a pilot.
Legal and Policy Rules:
The use of unmanned air system is governed under Azusa Police Department Policy 606, which
stipulates that the aircraft are to be used in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
DJI Matrice 30
Equipment:
Unmanned air system
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities:
The Azusa Police Department has one DJI Matrice 30 unmanned aircraft which is a remote
controlled quadcopter commercially available to both civilians and government agencies. The
aircraft has a 4k cameras which take still and video photography, and have a flight time of roughl y
thirty minutes. The aircraft has autonomous flight modes as well as manual controls.
Purpose:
The aircraft are used to supplement traditional helicopter service where the length of an operation
makes the flight of a traditional helicopter too costly. In addition, the aircraft can be available
within minutes, while traditional helicopter service has out of service hours where they are not
available to assist with patrol and SWAT operations.
Authorized Use:
Unmanned aircraft are used in public spaces and follow department policies which are geared
toward maintaining the integrity of citizen privacy. Search warrants must be obtained in order to
be used in non-public spaces.
Expected Lifespan:
The expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Fiscal Impact:
The DJI Matrice 30 was purchased using city funding of $20, 263, which was allocated to capital
improvement. The annual maintenance cost is estimated between $0 and $2000, depending on the
condition of the batteries.
Training:
All unmanned air system pilots are required to pass the FAA Part 107 competency test.
Additionally, they receive quarterly training for the duration of their time as a pilot.
Legal and Policy Rules:
The use of unmanned air system is governed under Azusa Police Department Policy 606, which
stipulates that the aircraft are to be used in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
Sky-Hero LOKI MKII UAV
Equipment:
Unmanned air system
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities:
The Azusa Police Department has one Sky-Hero LOKI MKII UAV unmanned aircraft which is a
remote controlled quadcopter commercially available to both civilians and government agencies.
The aircraft has a 4k camera which take still and video photography, including live feed in real
time, and has a flight time of roughly sixteen minutes. The aircraft has autonomous flight modes
as well as manual controls.
Purpose:
The Loki MKII UAV is an indoor/ outdoor small tactical UAV system, fully purpose built for
close quarter, under roof, tactical scouting missions. It operates in congested and dark
environments, its purpose is to place a microphone and a camera practically anywhere to collect
critical life-saving intelligence of immediate threats. It enables reliable and rapid situational
awareness for precise decision making, while maximizing safety for all.
Authorized Use:
Unmanned aircraft are used in public spaces and follow department policies which are geared
toward maintaining the integrity of citizen privacy. Search warrants must be obtained in order to
be used in non-public spaces.
Expected Lifespan:
The expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Fiscal Impact:
The Sky-Hero LOKI MKII UAV was purchased using city funding of $10,824, which was
allocated to the drone budget. The annual maintenance cost is estimated between $0 and $2000,
depending on the condition of the batteries.
Training:
All unmanned air system pilots are required to pass the FAA Part 107 competency test.
Additionally, they receive quarterly training for the duration of their time as a pilot.
Legal and Policy Rules:
The use of unmanned air system is governed under Azusa Police Department Policy 606, which
stipulates that the aircraft are to be used in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
B. Specialized Firearms and Ammunition
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities
The AZPD has 31 Colt and 26 Daniel Defense, AR-15 carbine rifles, capable of accurately
stopping an armed subject at various distances. These shoulder-fired rifles are designed for semi-
automatic fire chambered in 5.56 NATO/Remington .223. They are outfitted with lighting devices
to boost safety and electronic sighting devices to enhance the ease of use and the accuracy of fire.
The AZPD also has 14 Colt short-barreled carbine rifles that are nearly identical to the above noted
rifles, except for their shorter barrels. These shoulder-fired rifles are designed for semi and fully
automatic fire chambered in 5.56 NATO/Remington .223. These were purchased for the SWAT
team members who needed more maneuverability while conducting SWAT operations.
The AZPD has approximately 25K rounds of.556 rifle ammunition. We currently have Hornady
TAP PRECISION, 62 and 75 grain ammunition. This ammunition features a lead core jacketed
bullet that incorporates a non-corrosive primer with a brass casing. The Hornady 62 grain
ammunition offers muzzle velocity of 2817 feet per second and muzzle energy of 1092-foot lbs.
The Hornady 75 grain ammunition offers muzzle velocity of 2643 feet per second and muzzle
energy of 1163-foot lbs. We also have Winchester Full Metal Jacket, 55 grain, this ammunition is
commonly used for training and features a soft lead core which is jacketed with a brass coating.
The Winchester ammunition offers muzzle velocity of 3270 feet per second and muzzle energy of
1306-foot lbs.
The AZPD has one Daniel Defense AR-10 semi-automatic rifle, one Daniel Defense Delta 5, .308
Caliber bolt action rifle, one H-S Precision Pro-Series 2000A .308 bolt action rifle and one
Accuracy International Mark 3 .308 bolt action rifle. These firearms are chambered in .308
Winchester. These rifles have great stopping power and shoot accurately at distance. They are
primarily used in an over-watch capacity to protect the community and officers during large events
and in tactical situations where it might be necessary to incapacitate vehicles intentionally being
used as weapons. These rifles are outfitted with scoped optics designed to improve the accuracy
when shots are fired.
The AZPD has approximately 2.5K rounds of Hornady, .308 Winchester 168 grain, A-Max, TAP
PRECISION ammunition. These cartridges are match grade bullets and meets FBI barrier
penetration protocol. The bullet has a heat resistant polymer tip that improves the ballistic
coefficient resulting in higher impact velocities, less drop, less wind drift, and more energy on
target. The cartridge delivers excellent terminal performance. The cartridge offers a muzzle speed
of 2676 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 2671-foot lbs.
The AZPD has five B&T APC9 carbine style rifles that are chambered in 9mm, which is AZPD’s
standard duty issued handgun caliber. These rifles are suppressed and were purchased for the
SWAT team members for covert operations and who need greater maneuverability while
conducting SWAT operations.
Purpose
These rifles are to be used as precision weapons that confront a threat with greater accuracy at
longer distances than a handgun. They are also used to defeat bodyarmor worn by suspects who
engage in violence and to stop ongoing threats that cannot be handled with handgun munitions.
Authorized Use
Patrol rifles can be deployed in any circumstance where a team member expresses a reasonable
expectation that the rifle may be needed in accordance with Policy 306.3.4. Examples of some
general guidelines for deploying the patrol rifle may include, but are not limited to:
• Situations where the member reasonably anticipates an armed encounter.
• When a member is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at
long range.
• Situations where a member reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed a suspect’s
firepower.
• When a member reasonably believes that there may be a need to fire on a barricaded
person or a person with a hostage.
• When a member reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor.
• When authorized or requested by a supervisor.
• When needed to euthanize an animal.
Carbine short barreled and 9mm rifles can be deployed in any circumstance where a member can
express a reasonable expectation that the rifle may be needed and in accordance with Policy
306.3.4. These weapons are used only by members of the SWAT team.
The AR-10 and .308 caliber rifle’s authorized uses are similar to the patrol rifles, but they can be
deployed by only members of the SWAT team who have successfully completed POST-approved
training.
Expected Lifespans
Colt and Daniel Defense, AR-15 patrol rifles: No defined expiration, but until it is no longer
serviceable.
14 Colt short-barreled carbine rifles: Same as above.
B&T APC9 9mm carbine: Same as above.
Daniel Defense DD5 AR-10: Same as above.
Daniel Defense Delta 5: Same as above.
H-S Precision Pro Series 2000A: Same as above.
Accuracy International Mark 3: Same as above.
The 31 Colt patrol rifles were originally purchased between 2014 to 2017 with general fund money
(approximately $1200 per rifle).
The 26 Daniel Defense patrol rifles were originally purchased between 2017 to 2021 with general
fund money (approximately $1500 per rifle)
The 14 Colt short-barreled carbine rifles were originally purchased in 2017 with general fund
money (approximately $1100 per rifle).
The 5 B&T APC9 9mm carbines were originally purchased in 2010 with general fund money
(approximately $2100 per carbine).
The Daniel Defense DD5 AR-10 was originally purchased in 2020 with general fund money
(approximately $2,500).
The Daniel Defense Delta 5 was originally purchased in 2023 with general fund money
(approximately $3,000)
The H-S Precision Pro-Series 2000A and the Accuracy International Mark 3 were purchased
purchased using an unknown funding type (records were locked in a cyber-attack) of
approximately $4,000.
5.56/.223 ammunition was originally purchased when the AZPD acquired patrol rifles over 30
years ago and general fund money was used. It costs approximately $27,000 annually to maintain
25K rounds of ammunition.
308 ammunition was originally purchased over 30 years ago at the formation of the AZPD’s
SWAT team. The ammunition is purchased using general fund money. It costs approximately
$3,000 annually to maintain 2K rounds of ammunition.
The estimated ongoing maintenance of all the firearms listed in this category is $0–$100 per rifle
based on serviceability.
Training
Prior to using a rifle, officers must be certified by POST instructors. Officers are then required to
complete annual training and qualification conducted by a certified patrol rifle instructor.
Legal and Policy Rules
AZPD Policy 306 governs patrol rifle use, qualifications, and various other elements including
storage. POST requires ongoing biannual training with patrol rifles.
C. Armored Personnel Carriers
BearCat: An armored rescue vehicle capable of providing high ballistic protection, cover, limited
breaching capability, and transport of officers and/or civilians at critical incidents and high-risk
tactical operations. Capability: BearCats can support first responders in any hazardous, high risk,
or critical incident which would benefit from having a vehicle that provides a high level of ballistic
protection. Usage: These uses could include active shooters, armed barricaded suspects, hostage
situations, high-risk tactical operations, disaster response, officer/citizen rescues, and CBRNE
(Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) attacks and detection. Training
Requirements: Officers authorized to operate the BearCat are required to successfully complete in
house training on its capabilities and must complete a driving assessment during the training
period.
Fiscal Impact
Approximately $290,000.00 when purchased in 2019 using asset seizure funding
Lifespan
Approximately 20 years depending on operational usage and wear.
D. Command and Control Vehicles
Mobile Command Vehicles: Completely self-contained command posts designed to provide the
Incident Commander with a mobile base of operation. Capability: As a mobile base of operation,
these vehicles contain specialized command, control, and communications equipment to assist
with this mission. Usage: Mobile Command Vehicles are to be utilized as an Incident Command
Post for planned or unplanned events. Vehicles are also equipped with specialized equipment to
assist with numerous types of incidents.
Training Requirements
Officers frequently train in the operations of Command vehicles.
Fiscal Impact
The trailer was provided by the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) during the
COVID 19 pandemic
Lifespan
No lifespan indicated by manufacturer. Dependent on operational usage and wear.
The Department currently possesses the following types of Mobile Command Vehicles:
28’ trailer manufactured by Heartland Recreational Vehicles
E. Noise Flash Diversionary Devices (NFDD)
Canisters that emit a loud noise and bright light. Capability / Usage: Diversionary Devices are
capable of releasing large amounts of stored energy in the form of heat, light, pressure, and noise.
They are intended to temporarily distract, confuse, and disorient subjects. They can also be used
as “attention-getting” devices. Diversionary Devices are to be used exclusively by the SWAT
team. Noise Flash Diversionary Devices can be used in high-risk tactical operations as an attention
getting device. They can also be used during high-risk warrants, and hostage rescue incidents to
provide an added degree of officer safety by disorienting subjects. Training Requirements: SWAT
Officers regularly train on safe device deployment in a variety of operational settings.
Fiscal Impact
Approximately $2,500 annually depending on usage.
Lifespan
Five (5) year shelf life.
The Department currently possesses the following types of Diversionary Devices:
16 – Combined Tactical Systems, model 7290M Mini Bang, which is a device that produces a
thunderous bang with an intense bright light.
6 – Defense Technology, model 8902NR Low Roll Distraction Device, which is a non-reloadable
device.
2 – Defense Technology, Multi-Port Plus Distraction Device, which is a reloadable device.
48 – Combined Tactical Systems, model 7290M Mini Bang, which is a device that produces a
thunderous bang with an intense bright light.
F Specialized Firearms and Ammunition
Quantity, Description, and Capabilities
8 FTC Pepperball launchers that use high-pressure air to deliver kinetic projectiles (similar to a
paintball delivery system) with paint marking ability. The system launches projectiles at a target
(person) 60 feet away. It is a non-lethal option when law enforcement officers need to deliver a
kinetic energy impact to hostile subjects in violent encounters. It is also a de-escalation tool used
to avoid further injuries or more lethal options.
250 PepperBall inert impact rounds used in the launcher are .68 caliber, 3-gram projectiles. The
rounds contain a harmless, scented powder, this projectile is best suited for training, qualifications,
and direct impact when chemical exposure is not desired. The launcher uses compressed air to
propel the projectiles. The primary benefits are to provide a longer-distance impact and a non-
lethal alternative to close contact force. The munition launcher sends a projectile that creates
trauma, distraction, and pain. The projectiles have a velocity of 280–300 feet per second (FPS).
In addition to the Pepperball inert rounds the Azusa Police Department also has 450 Pepperball
rounds that can expose the intended target with “Pava” powder which has qualities similar to that
of OC spray. The projectiles have concentration of 5% PAVA pepper powder. These projectiles
are excellent for direct impact, area saturation and crowd control and are used in an effort to gain
control and compliance of a combative and assaultive subject.
24 Remington 870 less lethal shotguns are used to deploy a 12-gauge beanbag round up to a
distance of 75 feet. The range of the weapon system helps to maintain space between officers and
a suspect by reducing the immediacy of the threat, which is a main principle of de-escalation.
These weapon systems are distinguishable by their orange stock and fore grip. The weapon serves
as a less lethal distance impact weapon to cause pain, distraction, and trauma for violent offenders.
250, 12-gauge ballistic fiber bags filled with 40 grams of number 9 lead shot, commonly referred
to as a beanbag round. This projectile travels at a velocity of 270–290 (FPS).
7 Penn-Arms and 4 Defense Technology 40mm single-shot launchers. The launcher fires standard
40mm less lethal impact ammunition, up to 4.8 inches in cartridge length. The 40mm single
launcher is not a firearm, but a less lethal launching system that uses smokeless powder to deliver
40mm projectiles from a safe distance. The launcher can send 40mm munitions at a target up to
40 yards away. The less lethal launcher is a single launcher, which allows officers to assess after
every spent munition.
50, 40mm munitions, a direct-impact, spin-stabilized sponge munition used as a less lethal weapon
designed to de-escalate a potentially violent encounter.
Current Gas & Munitions (Manufactured 2020, Expires 2025)
Compounds, devices, and delivery systems utilized by SWAT, Mobile Field Force, and patrol
officers. Compounds can include irritants such as Chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS) or an
inflammatory agent such as Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) or Pava (synthetic OC). Chemical agents
can be liquid, powder, or gaseous. Delivery systems can be pyrotechnic, blast dispersion, OC
Fogger, or aerosol.
25 – 40 MM Wood Baton CTS
25 – 40 MM Sting Ball CTS
25 – White Smoke Pocket Tactical CTS
10 – Red Smoke Pocket Tactical CTS
7 – HC Smoke CTS
35 – 40 MM CS React Round ALS
38 – 40 MM CS Powder Projectile CTS
14 – 6230 CTS CS Hot Riot Smoke
13 – OC-CS Aerosol Grenade (OC VAPOR) CTS
18 – CS Pocket Tactical ALS
20 – 40 MM CS Muzzle Blast ALS
18 – 40 MM Liquid CS CTS 4330
2 – Launchable Flameless Inert Expulsion Canister CTS 5400
1 – Baffled White Smoke CTS 5210
1 – Jet Lite White Smoke CTS 5210JL
18 – Baffled CS / CTS 5230B Launchable
Expired Gas & Munitions
20 – Stingball Grenades
8 – Flameless Tri-Chamber CS DEFTECH
9 – Pocket Tactical CS DEFTECH
11 – HC Smoke DEFTECH
3 – 40 MM Stinger Rubber Ball DEFTECH
15 – 40 MM CS Liquid Ferret DEFTECH
9 – CS Hand Balls DEFTECH
29 – Spede Heat CS DEFTECH
7 – Triple Chaser CS DEFTECH
3 – 40 MM Direct Impact Sponge Rounds DEFTECH
3 – 40 MM CS Muzzle Blast DEFTECH
41 – 40 MM Smokeless Stinger DEFTECH
5 – 40 MM Skat Shell CS DEFTECH
45 – 40 MM Rubber Baton DEFTECH
17 – MK9 OC Spray DEFTECH
4 – MK 46 OC Spray (Fire Extinguisher size)
30 – 12 Gauge CS Liquid Ferret DEFTECH
5 – 40 MM Exact Impact Sponge Round DEFTECH
20 – 40 MM CS Liquid Ferret DEFTECH
14 – 40 MM OC Powder Ferret DEFTECH
Purpose
Kinetic projectiles limit the escalation of conflicts where lethal force is prohibited, unreasonable,
and undesirable. Kinetic energy projectiles, when used properly, are less likely to result in death
or serious physical injury and can be used to deescalate a potentially deadly situation.
Depending on the delivery method, chemical agents are capable of being introduced in close
proximity or from a distance. Depending on the type of delivery system and/or quantity, chemical
agents can be used to saturate individual suspects, violent crowds, or areas of varied size. Chemical
agents are to be used by the SWAT Team, Mobile Field Force, and/or patrol officers. Generally,
during high-risk tactical incidents chemical agents can be used to dislodge a suspect from a
stronghold location with the least possible danger to citizens, police, and the suspect. Chemical
agents can also be used to prevent an armed suspect from accurately firing at citizens and/or
officers. They can also be used in limited instances during civil unrest to disperse violent crowds.
Authorized Use
Situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
• The suspect is armed with a weapon and the tactical circumstances allow for the safe
application of approved munitions.
• The suspect has made credible threats to harm themselves or others.
• The suspect is engaged in riotous behavior or is throwing rocks, bottles, or other dangerous
projectiles at people and/or officers.
• There is probable cause to believe that the suspect has already committed a crime of
violence and is refusing to comply with lawful orders.
• As with other control devices, oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray and pepper projectiles may
be considered for use to bring under control an individual or groups of individuals who are
engaging in, or are about to engage in violent behavior. Pepper projectiles and OC spray
should not, however, be used against individuals or groups who merely fail to disperse or
do not reasonably appear to present a risk to the safety of officers or the public
• Suspect has committed a violent felony and has barricaded themselves refusing to comply
Expected Lifespans
PepperBall FTC Launcher until no longer serviceable
PepperBall munitions, 5 years
Remington 870 until no longer serviceable
Ballistic Fiber Bag Munitions (beanbags), 5 years
40mm Penn Arms and Defense Technology single-shot launcher until no longer serviceable
40mm sponge munitions, 5 years
Gas munitions, 5 years
Training
Sworn members must be trained in less lethal kinetic munitions by POST certified instructors.
Proficiency training will be monitored and documented biannually by a certified, control-device
weapons or tactics instructor. If an officer cannot demonstrate proficiency with a control device or
knowledge of this agency’s Use of Force Policy after remedial training, then that officer will be
restricted from carrying a controlled device.
Officers receive regular training on the deployment and use of chemical agents. Officers are
required to pass annual qualifications with the use of chemical agents and chemical agent delivery
systems in order to maintain proficiency.
Fiscal Impacts
PepperBall FTC launchers were purchased from 2021 with general fund money (approximately
$700 per launcher). Estimated annual cost is $0–$100 to maintain and service the launchers.
1,500 PepperBall munitions were last purchased in 2019 to replenish the expired stock. It will cost
an estimated annual average cost of $550 to maintain the inventory.
Remington 870 beanbag launchers were purchased over 5 years ago with general fund money
(approximately $950 per launcher). Estimated annual cost is between $0 and $100 for maintenance
based on serviceability.
Beanbag munitions were initially purchased over 20 years ago for an unknown amount using
unknown funds. It is estimated to cost $250 annually based on lifespan and quantities of munitions.
40mm Penn Arms launchers were purchased in 2019 with general fund money ($1500. per
launcher). Estimated annual cost is $0 to $100 to maintain and service the launchers.
40mm sponge munitions were initially purchased 20 years ago for an unknown amount using
unknown funds. It is estimated to cost $250 annually based on lifespan and quantities of munitions.
In 2019 gas munitions were last purchased for $8,481.21, to replenish expired munitions using
general funds. Depending on usage, this is the estimated cost to replenish munitions based on
lifespan every 5 years
Legal and Policy Rules
Rules are established under Policy 300, 303, 306, 312.5.1, and the SWAT Manual. It is the policy
of the AZPD to utilize the kinetic energy rounds for official law enforcement purposes and
according to state and federal laws, such as Penal Code 13652.