ALABAMA SHERIFF GIVES DEPUTIES FREE OFF-DUTY CONCEALED CARRY GUNS
DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris bought each of his 55 deputies a Glock 43 handgun to carry while off-duty. DeKalb deputies are required to purchase their duty weapons, and the sheriff wanted to ensure his off-duty law enforcement officers were able to respond to any other incidents similar to the Chattanooga military recruiting center shooting.
This sheriff has made the best move possible in my opinion, to arm deputies while off-duty gives another level security for the entire district. While these officers have already received training this initiative requires them to complete the Alabama Peace Officer’s Standards and Training certification for backup weapons as an additional measure.
The numbers cannot be argued with, more concealed carriers in any community have proven to lower crime rates and create safer communities. Encouraging concealed carry on behalf of these off-duty deputies makes perfect sense and I believe will go a long way to create additional safety and security for the whole community.
“If you are not prepared, it is time that you get self-defense training or firearms training,” said Harris. “As a Christian, I ask you to put your faith in God, and as a lifetime NRA member, it is time you learn to protect yourself by learning the proper and safe way to handle a weapon.”
The 55 Glocks will set the department back upwards of $25,000, but the sheriff said they are accepting donations.
