DeKalb Co. Sheriff’s Deputies to Carry Guns while Off Duty
Posted by jhingarat21 on 27th Aug 2015
Sheriff Harris said all deputies will carry a gun at all times.
DEKALB COUNTY, AL (WAFF) –The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is purchasing guns for all certified deputies to carry at all times while off duty.
Sheriff Jimmy Harris announced that he was changing the policy at the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office to where all certified deputies were to carry a concealed weapon on them at all times while off duty.
The department said his decision to do so was based on events occurring all over the world, especially these tragic events in the U.S. over the past several years. With ISIS infiltrating the U.S. and DeKalb County being a main route for drug curtail, he said he feels like there comes a time that all law enforcement and all law abiding citizens need to be prepared.
After receiving several bids on handguns, the department said they decided to go with the Glock 43. They ordered 55 of the Glock 43’s that came in last week.
The reason for the purchase of these handguns is because the deputies are required to purchase their own on-duty weapons. These guns will remain the property of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and all deputies receiving a gun will have to go through an APOST certification designed for backup weapons. The department said they are in the process or ordering ammo to go with the guns.
“The cost for the guns and ammo will be between $22,000 and $25,000,” said Harris. “We are still taking donations to help us pay for them and all donations are 100% tax deductible. If you would like to donate please contact us at 256-845-3801, 256-304-0469 or you can mail it to DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office 2801 Jordan Road SW, Fort Payne, AL 35968.”