Richmond Council approves police military‑equipment report with policy changes and review requirements

Council members voted unanimously on July 21 to adopt a resolution approving the Richmond Police Department’s 2025 annual military equipment use report, while attaching policy directions meant to narrow how some equipment is deployed.

The adopted motion approves continued use of equipment covered by the AB 481 process but adds two council amendments: require the police chief to work with the Community Police Review Commission (CPRC) on updated policies for patrol rifles and drones, and return to council with options for armored vehicles that could meet operational needs without the appearance of a "tank." Council member Wilson moved the amended acceptance, and Council member Jimenez seconded it.

The council’s action followed a detailed department presentation explaining that proposed ammunition purchases were intended to replace training rounds and outfit newly hired officers, not to expand the city’s long‑term stockpile. "It is replacing training," the department representative said, stressing monthly training cycles and rounds sent with recruits to academy courses.

Debate focused on two equipment types: patrol rifles and armored vehicles. RPD leadership told the council that rifles are issued to outfit growing patrol staffing and that less‑lethal launchers are being provided more broadly to patrol teams to enable non‑lethal options in appropriate circumstances. The council asked for more options on protective vehicles; one member described a Bearcat as "incredibly expensive" and "like sending a tank on city streets," and said an armored SUV might be a more appropriate alternative.

As part of the amendments, the council directed staff to return with a menu of armored‑vehicle alternatives and required the chief to coordinate with the CPRC on rifle and drone policy updates so policy guidance and operational practice are aligned before further changes. City attorneys and staff confirmed the CPRC has advisory authority to make policy recommendations and that any formal policy changes would follow existing municipal code procedures.

The resolution language cites government code sections governing military equipment reporting and RPD policy manual references. The council’s vote did not appropriate new budget dollars for purchases; the item’s purpose was to approve equipment under state law’s required findings and to set policy direction.

The council’s action ends the item for tonight; staff said policy work and the vehicle option analysis would be scheduled for return presentations.