Sandusky police to get new guns

SANDUSKY — They're only discharged as a last resort. But ensuring officers have them equipped and ready to go is a foremost priority for police commanders. During a recent public meeting, Sandusky city commissioners approved about an $8,000 expense, paid out in previously secured federal funds, for 55 new 9mm handguns, also known as pistols. Sandusky police Chief Jared Oliver explained the necessity and importance of this acquisition: • The arrival: "We placed the order after commission's approval and are awaiting a delivery date." • The reason: "The guns we have now are older. They are an (older generation) that we purchased in 2015. They were a newer version at the time. Getting replacement parts is very costly and some are not even in stock anymore. We have had several issues in the past, where it takes months and months to get replacement parts. We won't have that issue with (these new) guns." • The advantages: "They're smaller. They are a better fit for the officers. They are more practical in that they weigh less. And it will be the same ammunition." • The use: "Officers will be carrying them on patrols. This is the only firearm issued to the officers. Each officer is going to get one. We also have less lethal options: taser, spray like mace. We use them for de-escalation purposes." • The last resort: "First and foremost, we practice de-escalation. Our officers are trained in de-escalation tactics and have gone through it as recent as in the last two weeks. The use of a firearm is a last resort. An officer may use deadly force to protect him or herself when he or she reasonably believes that there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to him or herself or others, and (using a gun) is the absolute last resort."