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Township OKs purchase of less-lethal shotguns and constitutional-policing video series
Summary
Lower Frederick supervisors authorized use of remaining grant funds to buy less-lethal 'bean-bag' shotguns and a constitutional-policing video package; Chief Brian Cass said the tools will be secured and not put into service until policy and training are complete.
The Board of Supervisors authorized Chief Brian Cass to purchase less-lethal “bean-bag” shotguns and a constitutional-policing video training series using remaining grant funds from a state grant, at a total cost of $2,590.86.
Chief Cass told the board the less-lethal shotguns provide greater standoff capability than tasers and can be used as an option for armed or emotionally disturbed subjects. He said the devices would be purchased now to close out the grant, then secured until policy is drafted and officers are trained; deployment on patrol would not begin until after training and policy adoption.
The chief also requested a 12-video constitutional-policing series plus legal updates to help officers maintain current case-law guidance; he said both the weapons and the training reduce liability risk by clarifying appropriate responses and legal limits.
A supervisor raised safety concerns about accuracy and the risk of head or facial strikes; the chief responded that training emphasizes aiming for center mass and forbids strikes to head, face and groin, and that training will include live practice. The board approved the purchase unanimously.
Next steps: Chief Cass will complete procurement, staff will draft the policy, and officers will receive required training before the equipment is placed in service.
