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Board approves purchase of rifle suppressors for police rifles amid divided views on need
Summary
After discussion in public safety and a demonstration, the board approved buying suppressors for 25 patrol rifles to reduce peak noise and protect officer and bystander hearing; several trustees voted against the purchase citing uncertainty over frequency of on-duty rifle use.
The Village of Germantown board approved purchase of suppressors for 25 police rifles following a public‑safety demonstration and debate about need and officer safety.
Supporters, including Trustee Peper, said suppressors significantly reduce peak noise and are essential when officers might discharge rifles in enclosed spaces or during active‑shooter incidents. “The suppressor literally protects not only their hearing, but everyone else around them's hearing as well,” Trustee Peper said after participating in a demonstration.
Police Chief Martin said the devices improve officers’ ability to communicate in close quarters during a shooting incident and reduce the risk of acute hearing injury; he framed the purchase as a safety measure for officers and the public. Opposing trustees said they were unconvinced about the frequency or necessity of on‑duty rifle use and considered the purchase more of a want than an immediate need.
After roll‑call voting, the motion to approve the budgeted purchase passed. The public‑safety committee had recommended the purchase and a demonstration was held for trustees prior to the board vote. The purchase was budgeted and will be procured according to village procurement policies.
