Franklin County approves supplemental appropriation to buy tactical equipment using federal 287(g) stipend

Franklin County commissioners voted to approve a supplemental appropriation permitting the sheriff's office to use funds from its participation in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security 287(g) task-force program to buy tactical equipment.

Chief Deputy Sheriff Dan Foy told commissioners that the request covers a range of items intended to replace aging gear and improve officer safety and operational capability. He said the office plans to purchase Glock 45 MOS handguns to replace older Glock 22 (40-caliber) models, holsters and ammunition, a replacement Motorola APX radio (approximately $11,000), ballistic shoulder protection for HyperX rifle-rated vests, eye protection, a second rifle-rated ballistic shield, additional entry tools (Halligan bars and hammers) and rocker-panel lighting for the K-9 vehicle to improve visibility during emergency responses.

Foy said the Glock 22s will be retained for security staff when they are in the best condition, and that replacing older models now was possible because of the stipend. He described the radio purchase as a necessary replacement for a device that failed two to three weeks earlier. He framed the items as supporting the sheriff's tactical mission and aligning with national law enforcement standards to "enhance target acquisition, accuracy, and safety," particularly in low-light conditions.

A commissioner asked whether the equipment would be used only in support of immigration enforcement. Foy replied the items are for all sheriff's duties, regardless of whether an operation involves immigration enforcement. Commissioners expressed support for using the stipend to offset budget constraints and to modernize aging equipment.

The motion to approve the appropriation passed by voice vote.