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County debates hollow-point ammunition purchase for corrections before approving award
Summary
Essex County commissioners questioned a resolution to buy hollow-point 9mm ammunition for correctional use, sought legal and operational justification, and ultimately approved the Atlantic Tactical award after administration confirmed the rounds reflect longstanding state requirements.
A county resolution to purchase Winchester brand 9mm hollow-point ammunition for county corrections drew pointed questioning from commissioners before the board approved the award.
County staff introduced the purchase as Resolution 3: an award to Atlantic Tactical of New Jersey not to exceed $111,788 for 600 cases at $186.30 per case. Commissioner Richardson asked why hollow-point bullets would be needed in a correctional facility and whether staff or corrections leadership were present to explain operational needs. Administration initially said it would investigate and return with answers.
During discussion, commissioners raised safety and policy concerns about hollow points inside correctional settings. At one point the board moved to table/adjourn consideration of the item pending an explanation and possible answers by the end of the meeting or at the next meeting. Administration subsequently reported that the Department of Corrections confirmed it is a long-standing state requirement for law enforcement to have hollow-point ammunition. Mister Jackson (county administration) said the department had verified the requirement and explained the rationale offered by corrections leaders: hollow points are intended to reduce over-penetration and the risk to bystanders in some settings.
After receiving that confirmation, commissioners returned to the item later in the agenda and moved to approve the ammunition award by roll call. The record shows the motion carried with several commissioners absent. Commissioners asked staff to supply further technical and policy explanation as a follow-up to the approval.
The item underscores both procurement protocol and the need for clearer presentation of technical justifications when controversial equipment is requested.
