Policy
707
Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 1 Military Equipment
707.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
State MODIFIED
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the approval, acquisition, use, and reporting requirements of military equipment in compliance with Chapter 12.8 of Division 7 of Title 1 of the California Government Code (Sections 7070-7075) and shall be known as the City's "Military Equipment Use Policy" or "the Policy."
707.1.1 DEFINITIONS
State
Definitions related to this policy include (Government Code § 7070):
Governing body – The elected or appointed body that oversees the Department.
Military equipment – Includes but is not limited to the following:
• Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles. • Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers. • High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), two-and-one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached. • Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants. • Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units. • Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind. • Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature. This does not include a handheld, one-person ram.
• Firearms and ammunition of_.50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotguns and standard-issue shotgun ammunition.
• Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than_.50 caliber, including firearms and accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code § 30515, with the exception of standard-issue firearms.
• Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles. • Noise-flash diversionary devices and explosive breaching tools. • Munitions containing tear gas or OC, excluding standard, service-issued handheld pepper spray.
• Area denial electroshock devices, microwave weapons, water cannons, long-range acoustic devices (LRADs), acoustic hailing devices, and sound cannons. • Kinetic energy weapons and munitions.
Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 2 • Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight.
707.2 POLICY
State MODIFIED
It is the policy of the Santa Maria Police Department that members of this department comply with the provisions of Government Code § 7070-7075 and this Military Equipment Use Policy with respect to military equipment. The Military Equipment Use Policy will safeguard the public's welfare, safety, civil rights, and civil liberties.
707.3 MILITARY EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR
Best Practice
The Chief of Police should designate a member of this department to act as the military equipment coordinator. The responsibilities of the military equipment coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a) Acting as liaison to the governing body for matters related to the requirements of this policy.
(b) Identifying department equipment that qualifies as military equipment in the current possession of the Department, or the equipment the Department intends to acquire that requires approval by the governing body.
(c) Conducting an inventory of all military equipment at least annually. (d) Collaborating with any allied agency that may use military equipment within the jurisdiction of Santa Maria Police Department (Government Code § 7071). (e) Preparing for, scheduling, and coordinating the annual community engagement meeting to include:
1. Publicizing the details of the meeting.
2. Preparing for public questions regarding the department’s funding, acquisition, and use of equipment.
(f) Preparing the annual military equipment report for submission to the Chief of Police and ensuring that the report is made available on the department website (Government Code § 7072).
(g) Establishing the procedure for a person to register a complaint or concern, or how that person may submit a question about the use of a type of military equipment, and how the Department will respond in a timely manner.
707.4 APPROVAL
State MODIFIED
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the Military Equipment Use Policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed Military Equipment Use Policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 3 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071).
The Military Equipment Use Policy must be approved by the governing body prior to engaging in any of the following (Government Code § 7071):
(a) Requesting military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. (b) Seeking funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
(c) Acquiring military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
(d) Collaborating with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department. (e) Using any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Soliciting or responding to a proposal for, or entering into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
(g) Acquiring military equipment through any means not provided above. 707.5 COORDINATION WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS
State MODIFIED
This policy recognizes the need for agencies to provide assistance to each other, whether in ongoing combined or regional operations, occasional planned operations, or in exigent circumstances. Where applicable to the provisions of Government Code § 7070 through § 7075, such assisting agencies must comply with their respective military equipment use policies when rendering assistance.
707.6 ANNUAL REPORT
State MODIFIED
Upon approval of a Military Equipment Use Policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use (Government Code § 7072).
The annual military equipment report shall, at a minimum, include the following information for the immediately preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment:
(a) A summary of how the military equipment was used and the purpose of its use. (b) A summary of any complaints or concerns received concerning the military equipment. (c) The results of any internal audits, any information about violations of the military equipment use policy, and any actions taken in response.
Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 4 (d) The total annual cost for each type of military equipment, including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation, maintenance, storage, upgrade, and other ongoing costs, and from what source funds will be provided for the military equipment in the calendar year following submission of the annual military equipment report. (e) The quantity possessed for each type of military equipment. (f) If the Department intends to acquire additional military equipment in the next year, the quantity sought for each type of military equipment.
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall also make each annual military equipment report publicly available on the department website for as long as the military equipment is available for use. The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072 for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in department inventory. 707.7 MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE CONSIDERATIONS
Agency Content
1. The military equipment acquired and authorized by the Department is:
(a) Necessary because there is no reasonable alternative that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.
(b) Reasonably cost effective compared to available alternatives that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.
2. Military equipment shall only be used by a Department employee after applicable training, including any course required by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, has been completed, unless exigent circumstances arise.
707.8 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
State MODIFIED
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the shall hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which they should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.
707.9 USE IN EXIGENT CIRCUMSTANCES
Agency Content
In exigent circumstances and with the approval of the Chief of Police or his/her designee, the Police Department may acquire, borrow and/or use military equipment that is not included in the Military Equipment Use Policy. If the Police Department acquires, borrows, and/or uses military equipment in exigent circumstances, in accordance with this section, it must take all of the following actions:
(a) Provide written notice of that acquisition or use to the City Council within 30 days following the commencement of such exigent circumstance, unless such information is confidential or privileged under local, state or federal law.
Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 5 (b) If it is anticipated that the use will continue beyond the exigent circumstance, submit a proposed amended Military Equipment Use Policy to the City Council within 60 days after the initial notification to the City Council, and receive approval, as applicable, from the City Council.
(c) Include the military equipment in the Department's next annual military equipment report.
707.10 POLICY COMPLIANCE
Agency Content
(a) Department supervisors and managers will ensure that all Department members comply with this policy. The Professional Standards Lieutenant will conduct a review of Department compliance annually in preparation for the annual report. The Chief of Police or designee will be notified of any policy violations and, if needed, the violation(s) will be administratively investigated in accordance with Department policy.
All instances of non-compliance will be reported to City Council via the annual military equipment report.
(b) Any member of the public can register a question or concern regarding military use equipment by contacting the Santa Maria Police Department's Professional Standards Lieutenant via the department email ([email protected]), in person, or telephone, (805) 928-3781 x2297. A response to the question or concern shall be completed by the Department in a timely manner.
(c) Any member of the public can submit a complaint to any member of the Department and in any form (i.e. in person, telephone (805) 928-3781 ext. 2297, email [email protected]). Once the complaint is received, it should be routed to the Professional Standards Lieutenant in accordance with Department policy. 707.11 MAINTENANCE OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT SUPPLY LEVELS Agency Content
When military equipment is deemed inoperable, or has been consumed (munitions, gas, etc.), it can be replaced with like kind equipment up to the quantity level authorized by City Council. 707.12 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
Agency Content
All military use equipment kept and maintained by the Department shall be cataloged in a way which addresses each of the following requirements:
(a) The manufacturers' description of the equipment.
(b) The capabilities of the equipment.
(c) The purposes and authorized uses for which the Department proposes to use the equipment.
(d) The expected lifespan of the equipment.
(e) The fiscal impact of the equipment, both initially and for on-going maintenance.
Santa Maria Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 6 (f) The quantity of the equipment, whether maintained or sought.
The following attachment, which is incorporated herein by reference, contains a list of qualifying equipment for the Department:
See attachment: AB 481 2024-2025
Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** Attachments - 7 Attachments
Attachment
Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/04/28, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Santa Maria Police Department ***DRAFT*** AB 481 2024-2025 (updated in Lexipol
4-28-25).pdf - 8
AB 481 2024-2025 (updated in Lexipol 4-28-25).pdf
AB 481 2024-2025 (updated in Lexipol 4-28-25).pdf
Santa Maria Police Department Annual Military
Equipment Use Report
June 2024-June 2025
The Santa Maria Police Department is committed to transparency, public trust, community partnerships, and compliance with the law. As such, the Department has authored the following Annual Military Equipment Use Report following annual reporting requirements outlined in California Government Code section 7072.
The Santa Maria Police Department possesses and employs a variety of military equipment to assist in safely achieving its mission of enhancing public safety. The variety of equipment is necessary since each tool has a different purpose and capability.
Critical incidents are often unpredictable and can rapidly evolve. Possessing the appropriate equipment aids in bringing incidents to a safe resolution.
The use of military equipment is restricted to use during certain situations and only allowed by trained personnel. The Department's military equipment is continuously evaluated, and its use is influenced by law, policy, and the benefit it provides to public safety.
This Annual Military Equipment Use Report outlines a summary of military equipment use, inventory, fiscal impact, complaints, and reported concerns from the 12-month period of June of 2024 to June of 2025.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
2 1. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS): Unmanned aircrafts systems of any type that are capable of sustaining directed flight, whether preprogrammed or remotely controlled (commonly referred to as a “drone” or an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)), and all the supporting or attached systems designed for gathering information through imaging, recording or any other means. a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. DJI Mavic Mini cost: $650 each, quantity: 2. Miniature UAS that can record video and audio with about 30 minutes of flight time. ii. DJI Mavic Enterprise Dual, cost: $5,500 each, quantity: 2. UAS that has a color and infrared (IR) camera as well as an audible speaker and light. Capable of video recording for approx. 30 minutes of flight time.
iii. DJI Mavic Pro, cost: $2000, quantity: 2. UAS that is capable of 25 min flight time , and a single- color camera with recording capabilities.
iv. BRINC Lemur S, cost: $12,000, quantity: 2. UAS has a 31-minute flight time, two -way communications, self -righting capabilities, camera, and infrared capability. In addition, this UAS has video recording capabilities.
v. DJI 350RTK with HT20, cost: $40,000 each, quantity: 2. UAS that has 45 minutes of flight time, in all weather, has an IR camera, zoom camera, and light. This UAS has video recording capabilities. vi. Brinc Lemur II, 30,000 each, quantity 2. UAS has about a 30- minute flight time, flight stabilization sensors, a night vision camera, a thermal camera, and 3D mapping capability. This will be an upgrade and replacement for the current Lemur S through a buyback program.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. The equipment will be deployed when its view would assist officers or incident commanders with the following situations, which include but are not limited to:
1. Major collision investigations.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
3 2. Search for missing persons.
3. Natural disaster management.
4. Crime scene photography and measurement.
5. Tactical or other public safety and life preservation missions.
6. In response to specific requests from local, state, or federal fire authorities for fire response and prevention.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate any UAS during approved missions. e. Life Span
i. All UAS equipment, 3-5 years.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. The annual program maintenance, training, and replacement cost is approximately $15,000.
g. Financial Account
i. General fund / Santa Maria Police Council
h. Training
i. The Federal Aviation Administration licenses all Department UAS operators for UAS operation. In addition, each operator must attend initial department and ongoing training.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established by FAA Regulation 14 CFR Part 107 and the Santa Maria Police Department UAS policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize UAS only for official law enforcement purposes and in a manner that respects the privacy of our community under State and Federal law.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
4 i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
2. Armored Vehicles: Armored Personnel Carriers are 4- wheel drive vehicles capable of providing high ballistic protection, cover, limited breaching capability, and transport of officers and/or civilians at critical incidents and high- risk tactical operations.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. 2015 Lenco Bearcat, G2, cost: $243,300.00, quantity: 1. The Lenco Bearcat, G2, is an armored rescue vehicle (ARV) that seats 10-12 personnel with an open floor plan that allows for the rescue of injured personnel. It can stop various projectiles, which provides greater safety to citizens and officers beyond the protection level of shield and personal body armor.
ii. 2019 Lenco Bearcat, G2, cost: $291,646.00, quantity: 1. The Lenco Bearcat, G2, is an armored rescue vehicle that seats 10 -12 personnel with an open floor plan that allows for the rescue of injured personnel. It can stop various projectiles, which provides greater safety to citizens and officers beyond the protection level of shield and personal body armor. This vehi cle has a boom device capable of deploying chemical agents and a camera for live feeds. b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. To be used in response to critical incidents to enhance officer and community safety, improve scene containment and stabilization, and assist in resolving critical incidents.
d. Authorized Use
i. Armored rescue vehicles shall only be authorized by a watch commander, SWAT commander, or their designee based on the specific circumstances of a critical incident. ARVs shall be used only by officers trained in their deployment and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training.
e. Life Span
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
5 i. Lenco Bearcat models G2 and G3 have a 25-year expected life span.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. Annual maintenance costs of approximately $3,000 each. g. Financial Account
i. General fund, Santa Maria Police Council, and community grant. h. Training
i. All drivers/operators shall attend internal training in the operations and practical driving of the vehicles.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under Department policy. It is the policy of the Department to utilize armored rescue vehicles only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law. To drive these vehicles, operators must have a valid California State Class C license.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
3. Mobile Incident Command Vehicle (MIC) : Mobile Command Vehicles are completely self -contained command posts designed to provide the Incident Commander with a mobile base of operation.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. 2009 Chevrolet C5500 chassis vehicle, cost: $200,000.00, quantity: 1. The MIC can also be utilized for SWAT/CNT and other critical incidents, preplanned significant events, searching for missing persons, natural disasters, and community events. b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
6 c. Purpose
i. To be used based on the specific circumstances of a given critical incident, significant event, natural disaster, or community event that is taking place.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only officers trained in the deployment and operations of the MIC in a manner consistent with Department policy and training are authorized to operate it. In addition, operators must have a valid California State Class C license to drive the MIC. Situations that the MIC is approved for use include but are not limited to critical incidents, emergencies, and natural disasters.
e. Life Span
i. The MIC’s lifespan is estimated to be 20 years. Upgrades to technology inside the MIC will be required only when the department upgrades IT-related items.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. The maintenance cost is approximately $3,000.
g. Financial Account
i. General fund
h. Training
i. The driver/operator shall receive training in safely handling the vehicle.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. It is the policy of the Department to use the MIC only for official law enforcement purposes and in accordance with California State law regarding the operation of motor vehicles.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
7 i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
4. Community Event Vehicle, High- Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle (H MMWV):
The HMMWV is a former military vehicle used for community events and public relations. All military markings and colors have been removed. a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. 1987 American General H MMWV, a four -wheeled drive vehicle, cost: $0, quantity: 1. This vehicle is a High- Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle (H MMWV) acquired by the SMPD through the federal military equipment acquisition program. It was acquired at no cost to the department. The H MMWV is designed to be operated through rough terrain and harsh weather conditions.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. This vehicle’s primary purpose is for use during community and public relations events. It is meant to enhance the relationship between the community and members of this department by creating interest or attention, thereby leading to a conversation with the community.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only trained staff can operate this vehicle by department policy and local, state, and federal laws.
e. Life Span
i. Undetermined; however, these vehicles are designed to withstand harsh conditions, which should extend their service life. f. Fiscal Impact
i. The annual maintenance cost is approximately $1,000. g. Financial Account
i. General fund
h. Training
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
8 i. The driver/operator shall receive training in safely handling the vehicle.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. It is the policy of the Department to use the HMMWV only for official law enforcement purposes and in accordance with California State law regarding the operation of motor vehicles.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
5. 40mm Launchers and Rounds: 40mm launchers are utilized by department personnel as a less lethal tool to launch impact rounds and chemical munitions. 40mm launchers and munitions are single shot or multi-shot launchers capable of deploying a variety of 40mm rounds.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Defense Technology, 40mm, Single Shot, #1425, cost: $1000, quantity: 18. The launcher is a tactical single shot launcher that features an expandable ROGERS Super Stoc™ and an adjustable Integrated Front Grip (IFG) with light rail. It will fire standard 40mm less lethal ammunition, up to 4.8 inches in cartridge length. In addition, it will launch a 40mm less lethal round up to 131 feet and is only authorized to be used by trained personnel.
ii. Penn Arms, 40mm multi launcher, model #P540-1, cost: $3300, quantity: 1. A less lethal 40mm pump-action advance magazine drum launcher with a fixed stock and combo rail. It has a six -shot capacity and rifled barrel, designed to fire 40mm chemical and impact (less lethal) munitions. Only SWAT personnel are authorized to use this less lethal weapon system.
iii. Heckler and Koch, 40mm Single shot launcher , model #69A-1, cost: $500 (estimate), quantity: 1. The 40mm single launcher is a tactical single-shot launcher that features an expandable stock. It will fire standard 40mm less lethal ammunition, up to 4.8 inches in Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
9 cartridge length. It will launch a 40mm less lethal round and is only authorized to be used by trained personnel only.
iv. Munition: Defense Technology , 40 mm Exact Impact Sponge, #6325, cost: $20, quantity: 160. A less lethal 40mm lightweight plastic and foam projectile fired from a single or multi -round purpose-built 40mm canister launcher with a rifled barrel at 325 FPS. The 30-gram foam projectile delivers 120 ft/lbs. of energy on impact.
v. Munition: Defense Technology , 4 0mm Extended Range Exact Impact Sponge, #6325LE, cost: $20, quantity: 5 0. A less lethal 40mm lightweight plastic and foam projectile fired from a single or multi-round purpose- built 40 mm canister launcher with a rifled barrel.
vi. Munition: Defense Technology, 40 mm Direct Impact OC, #6320, cost: $30, quantity: 40. A less lethal 40mm lightweight plastic and crushable foam projectile fired from a single or multi -round purpose-built 40mm canister launcher with a rifled barrel at 295 FPS. The 39-gram crushable foam projectile delivers 120 ft/lbs. of energy upon impact in addition to 5 grams of OC irritant dispersion. vii. Munition: Defense Technology, 40mm Direct Impact CS, #6322, cost: $30, quantity: 40. A less lethal 40mm lightweight plastic and crushable foam projectile fired from a single or multi -round purpose-built 40mm canister launcher with a rifled barrel at 295 FPS. The 39-gram crushable foam projectile delivers 120 ft/lbs. of energy upon impact in addition to the dispersion of 5 grams of CS irritant.
viii. Munition: Defense Technology, 40mm ferret OC Liquid Barricade Penetrator round , #2260, cost: $23, quantity: 20. A less lethal 40mm round used to penetrate barriers, such as windows, hollow core doors, wallboard, and thin plywood. Upon impacting the barrier, the nose cone ruptures and instantaneously delivers a small chemical payload inside a structure or vehicle. In a tactical deployment situation, the 40mm ferret is primarily used to dislodge barricaded subjects from confined areas. Its purpose is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects.
ix. Munition: Defense Technology, 40mm ferret OC Powder Barricade Penetrator round, #2290, cost: $21, quantity: 150. A less lethal Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
10 40mm round penetrates barriers, such as windows, hollow core doors, wallboards, and thin plywood. Upon impacting the barrier, the nose cone ruptures and instantaneously delivers a small chemical payload inside a structure or vehicle. In a tactical deployment situation, the 40mm ferret is primarily used to dislodge barricaded subjects from confined areas. Its purpose is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects.
x. Munition: Defense Technology, 40mm ferret CS Liquid Barricade Penetrator round , #2262, cost: $23, quantity: 20. A less lethal 40mm round used to penetrate barriers, such as windows, hollow core doors, wallboard, and thin plywood. Upon impacting the barrier, the nose cone ruptures and instantaneously delivers a small chemical payload inside a structure or vehicle. In a tactical deployment situation, the 40mm ferret is primarily used to dislodge barricaded subjects from confined areas. Its purpose is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects.
xi. Munition: Defense Technology, 40mm ferret CS Powder Barricade Penetrator round, #2292, cost: $22, quantity: 100. A less lethal 40mm round used to penetrate barriers, such as windows, hollow core doors, wallboard, and thin plywood. Upon impacting the barrier, the nose cone ruptures and instantaneously delivers a small chemical payload inside a structure or vehicle. In a tactical deployment situation, the 40mm ferret is primarily used to dislodge barricaded subjects from confined areas. Its purpose is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Launcher: Defense Technology, 40mm, single shot launcher, 1425, cost: $1000, quantity: 6 (for a total of 24) . The 40 mm Single Launcher is a tactical single shot launcher that features an expandable R ogers Super Stoc ™ and an adjustable integrated Front Grip (IFG) with light rail. It will deploy standard 40mm less lethal ammunition, up to 4.8 inches in cartridge length. This is an inventory increase only; it is not an additional item.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
11 ii. Launcher: Milkor MGL -LTL, 40mm, (6 chamber) multi -launcher, cost: $ 4000, quantity: 2. The Milkor MGL-LTL 40mm LTL can be loaded mission- specific with a variety of 40mm less lethal munitions, thus allowing the operator to select the desired round and deploy without changing the contents within the tool . All six 40mm less lethal rounds can be deployed in less than 3 seconds, effectively covering a very large area without reloading the launcher.
Purpose
iii. To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
c. Authorized Use
i. Situations for the use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
1. Self-destructive, dangerous, and combative individuals.
2. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents.
3. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained.
4. Potentially vicious animals.
5. Training.
6. Approved demonstrations.
ii. Sworn members utilizing 40mm less lethal chemical agents or impact rounds are trained by POST -certified less lethal and chemical agent instructors.
d. Life Span
i. 40 mm Launching Systems, 25 years.
ii. All impact sponge rounds - 5 years
iii. All chemical agent rounds - 5 years
e. Fiscal Impact
i. Annual maintenance is approximately $50 for each launcher. f. Financial Account
i. General fund
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
12 g. Training
i. All officers are trained in the 40mm less lethal launcher as a less lethal option through in- service training. Additionally, SWAT personnel receive additional training internally when they transfer to the unit.
h. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under Department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize the 40 mm only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
i. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
j. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
6. Less Lethal Shotgun: Less Lethal Shotgun deploys the less lethal 12- gauge Super-Sock Beanbag Round. The 12-Gauge-Stabilized munition is comprised of a shell loaded with a 40- gram, tear shaped bag made from a cotton and ballistic material blend and filled with #9 shot. It is deployed from a Remington Model 870 pump-action shotgun. These shotguns are distinctly marked bright orange. a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Weapon: Remington 870 less lethal shotgun, cost: $650, quantity:
18. The Remington 870 l ess lethal shotgun is used to deploy the less lethal 12-gauge Super-Sock Beanbag round up to 75 feet. The weapon range helps maintain space between officers and a suspect, reducing the threat's immediacy, which is a principle of de- escalation.
ii. Munition: Defense Technology drag stabilized 12-GA. Beanbag round, model #3027, cost: $6, quantity: 500. The Drag Stabilized™ 12-Gauge round is a translucent 12-Gauge shell loaded with a 40- Gram tear-shaped bag made from a cotton and ballistic material blend and filled with #9 shot. This design utilizes four stabilizing tails and uses smokeless powder as the propellant. This round has a velocity of 270 fps with a maximum effective range of 75 feet.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
13 b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
a. Purpose
i. To limit the escalation of the conflict (de-escalation), where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable. b. Authorized Use
i. Situations for the use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
1. Self-destructive, dangerous, and combative individuals.
2. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents.
3. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained.
4. Potentially vicious animals.
5. Training exercises or approved demonstrations.
c. Life Span
i. Remington 870 Less Lethal Shotgun- 25 years.
ii. Bean Bag Round- Until used.
d. Fiscal Impact
i. The annual cost is approximately $50 for each shotgun. e. Financial Account
i. General fund
f. Training
i. All officers are trained in the 12-gauge less lethal shotgun as a less lethal option through in- service training. Additionally, SWAT personnel receive additional training internally when they transfer to the unit.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under SMPD department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize the less lethal shotgun only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
j. Complaints
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
14 i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and
determined there were no violations of the Military
Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
7. Distraction Devices: Noise-Flash Diversionary Devices (or Flashbangs) are canisters that emit a loud noise and bright light.
a. Current Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Defense Technology, light sound diversionary device 12-gram reload, cost: $35, quantity: 40. A reloadable, non-bursting, non- fragmenting multi-bang device that produces a thunderous bang with intense bright light. Ideal for distracting dangerous suspects during assaults, hostage rescue, room entry, or other high-risk arrest situations.
ii. Defense Technology, light sound diversionary device 12-gram reload, cost: $35, quantity: 40. A reloadable, non- bursting, non- fragmenting multi -bang device that produces a thunderous bang with intense bright light. Ideal for distracting dangerous suspects during assaults, hostage rescue, room entry, or other high- risk arrest situations.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. A distraction device is ideal for distracting dangerous suspects during assaults, hostage rescue, room entry, or other high- risk arrests. Also, producing atmospheric pressure and brilliant white light and, as a result, can cause short -term (6 - 8 seconds) physiological/psychological, sensory deprivation to give officers a tactical advantage.
d. Authorized Use
i. Diversionary Devices shall only be used:
1. By officers who have been trained in their proper use.
2. In hostage and barricaded subject situations.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
15 3. In high-risk warrant (search/arrest) services where there may be extreme hazards to officers.
4. During other high- risk situations where their use would enhance officer safety.
5. During training exercises.
e. Life Span
i. Until used
f. Fiscal Impact
i. No annual maintenance.
g. Financial Account
i. General fund
h. Training
i. Before using it , officers must attend diversionary device training conducted by POST certified instructors.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
8. Rifles: Firearms that are fired from shoulder level, having a longer, grooved barrel intended to make bullets spin and thereby have greater accuracy over a long distance.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Colt M4 carbine, semi -automatic .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, cost:
$1100, quantity: 121. A semi-automatic AR-15-style rifle that fires Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
16 an intermediate power cartridge (.223/5.56). 92 rifles have 14.5- inch barrels used by patrol and 20 11.5-inch barrels used by SWAT personnel.
ii. Colt Commando, semi-automatic .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, cost:
$900, quantity: 9. A semi -automatic AR-15 style rifle that fires an intermediate power cartridge (.223/5.56). with a shortened barrel and expandable stock used by motor officers. The size
modifications allow the rifle to be secured to the officers’ motorcycle.
iii. Smith and Wesson, semi-automatic .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, cost:
$1100, quantity: 1. A semi-automatic AR-15-style 14.5-inch rifle that fires an intermediate power cartridge (.223/5.56). This rifle will be used by SWAT personnel.
iv. Ruger, semi -automatic .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, cost: $1100, quantity: 1. A semi-automatic AR-15-style 14.5-inch rifle that fires an intermediate power cartridge (.223/5.56). This rifle will be used by SWAT personnel.
v. PWA, semi -automatic .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, cost: $1100, quantity: 1. A semi-automatic AR-15-style 14.5-inch rifle that fires an intermediate power cartridge (.223/5.56). This rifle will be used by SWAT personnel.
vi. Heckler and Koch, 416 rifle, 223/5.56mm caliber, cost: $ 2200, quantity: 5. This rifle uses a proprietary HK short-stroke gas piston in place of the direct-gas-impingement system found on traditional AR15-style rifles that propels exhaust gas into the upper receiver to operate the action to improve reliability and reduce maintenance significantly.
vii. Heckler and Koch, MP5A3, 9mm, submachinegun, cost: $2000, quantity: 12. This weapon is used by SWAT team members. They are lightweight, air-cooled, selective fire, 9mm sub-machine guns. viii. Remington 700 .308 caliber bolt -action rifle. Equipped with a telescopic sight, cost: $2350, quantity: 8. SWAT uses this rifle for long-range engagements and overwatch protection. The attached scope is for increased visual recognition, threat identification, and accuracy.
ix. Ammunition: Winchester .308 caliber, 168 grain, Match King boat tail hollow point, cost: $963 per case of 1000, quantity: 5400. This Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
17 ammunition is used by the SWAT long rifle team when firing their Remington 700 .308 rifles.
x. Ammunition: .223/5.56 caliber, cost: $ 388-$847 per case (depending on type) of 1000, quantity: 1 40,000. This a mmunition is for training and duty issue.
xi. Ammunition: 9mm, cost: $169-223 per case (depending on type) of 500, quantity: 140 ,000. This ammunition is for training and duty issue.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Ammunition: .308 Bonded 168 gr ain, cost : $1 ,714 per case of 1,000, quantity: 3,000 . This ammunition is for training and duty issue for long rifle marksmen only. This ammunition is designed for penetrating intermediate barriers (auto glass, windows, etc.) which will increase the SWAT Teams capabilit ies for citizen/hostage rescue.
c. Purpose
i. Rifles are used as precision weapons to address a threat with more precision and greater distances than a handgun.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only members that are POST certified may use a rifle or submachine gun.
e. Life Span
i. Remington .308 rifle, 10-15 years.
ii. Colt .223 caliber / 5.56 mm rifles, 10-15 years.
iii. All ammunition – Until used.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. Annual maintenance is approximately $50 for each rifle and accessories.
g. Financial Account
i. General fund
h. Training
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
18 i. Before using a rifle, officers must be certified by POST instructors in the rifle’s operation. Additionally, all members must qualify four times per year with their assigned rifle.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize rifles only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law regarding the use of force. j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
9. Chemical Agents and Smoke Canisters: Chemical Agents and Chemical Agent Delivery Devices can include irritants such as Chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS) or an inflammatory agent such as Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) or Pava (synthetic OC).
Chemical agents can be liquid, powder, or gaseous. Delivery sy stems can be pyrotechnic, blast dispersion, OC Fogger, or aerosol.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Chemical Agent : Defense Technology, Triple-Chaser separating canister, CS, #1026, cost: $50, quantity: 10. The Triple-Chaser CS consists of three separate canisters pressed together with separating charges between each. When deployed, the canisters separate and land approximately 20 feet apart, allowing increased area cover age quickly. This canister can be hand thrown or launched from a fired delivery system. The canister is 6.5 by 2.7 in. and holds an approximately 3.2 oz. of active agent payload. It has an approximate burn time of 20-30 seconds.
ii. Chemical Agent Defense Technology, Riot Control Continuous Discharge Canister, CS, #1082, cost: $28, quantity: 40. The Riot Control CS Canister is explicitly designed for outdoor use in crowd control situations with a high- volume continuous burn that expels its payload in approximately 20-40 seconds through four gas ports located on the top of the canister. This canister can conceal tactical movement or direct a crowd’s route. The volume of smoke and Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
19 agent is vast and obtrusive. This launchable canister is 6.0 in. by
2.35 in. and holds approximately 2.7 oz. of the active agent. iii. Chemical agent: Defense Technology, Flameless Tri-Chamber CS Canister, #1032, cost $39, quantity: 50. The design of the Tri - Chamber Flameless CS Canister allows the contents to burn within an internal can and disperse the agent safely with reduced risk of fire. The canister is designed primarily for indoor tactical situations to detect and dislodge a bar ricaded subject. This canister will deliver approximately .70 oz. of agent during its 20- 25 seconds burn time. The Tri -Chamber Flameless Canister can be used in crowd control and tactical deployment situations by Law Enforcement and Corrections but was designed with the barricade situation in mind. Its applications in tactical situations are primarily to detect and dislodge barricaded subjects. The purpose of the Tri- Chamber Flameless Canister is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects. The Tri -Chamber Flameless Canister provides the option of delivering a pyrotechnic chemical device indoors, maximizing the chemicals’ effectiveness via heat and vaporization while minimizing or negating the chance of fire to the structure.
iv. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, Flameless Tri-Chamber OC Canister, #1030, cost $46, quantity: 50. The design of the Tri - Chamber Flameless OC Canister allows the contents to burn within an internal can and disperse the agent safely with reduced risk of fire. The canister is designed primarily for indoor tactical situations to detect and dislodge a barricaded subject. This canister will deliver approximately .70 oz. of agent during its 20- 25 seconds burn time. The Tri -Chamber Flameless Canister can be used in crowd control and tactical deployment situations by Law Enforcement and Corrections but was designed with the barricade situation in mind. Its applications in tactical situations are primarily to detect and dislodge barricaded subjects. The purpose of the Tri- Chamber Flameless Canister is to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomfort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects. The Tri -Chamber Flameless Canister provides the option of delivering a pyrotechnic chemical device indoors, maximizing the chemicals’ effectiveness via heat and vaporization while minimizing or negating the chance of fire to the structure.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
20 v. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, Flameless Expulsion OC canister, #2040, cost: $48, quantity: 20. The OC Flameless Expulsion Canister is a compact, non-pyrotechnic, chemical agent device that provides safe expulsion without risk of fire. It is safe to use inside a residence. Unlike pyrotechnical canisters, this device’s contents are expelled upon the actuation of a CO2 cartridge that will affect a confined area of approximately 1500 square feet. This canister is 7.5 by 1.65 in. and delivers about .02 oz. of active agent during its 3-second discharge time.
vi. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, Flameless Expulsion CS canister, #2042, cost: $46, quantity: 10 . The CS Flameless Expulsion Canister is a compact, non-pyrotechnic, chemical agent device that provides safe expulsion without risk of fire. It is safe to use inside a residence. Unlike pyrotechnical canisters, this device’s contents are expelled upon the actuation of a CO2 cartridge that will affect a confined area of approximately 1500 square feet. This canister is 7.5 by 1.65 in. and delivers about .02 oz. of active agent during its 3-second discharge time.
vii. Smoke: Defense Technology, Maximum HC S moke Canister, #1073, cost: $38, quantity: 30. The Maximum Smoke Canister is designed for outdoor use in crowd control situations with a high- volume continuous burn that expels its payload in approximately
1.5 – 2 minutes through four vent ports located on the top of the canister. This canister can be used to conceal tactical movement or to route a crowd. The volume of smoke and agent is vast and obtrusive. This launchable canister is 6.0 in. by 2.6 in. and holds approximately 2.9 oz. of the active agent.
viii. Smoke: Defense Technology, Pocket Tactical Saf-Smoke Canister, #1017, cost: $3 1, quantity: 30. The Saf-Smoke Canister is designed for outdoor use in crowd control situations with a high- volume continuous burn that expels its payload in approximately 20-40 seconds through four emission ports. This canister can be used to conceal tactical movement or to route a crowd. The volume of smoke and agent is vast and obtrusive. This canister is 4.75 in. by 1.4 in. and holds approximately 1.15 oz. of the active agent.
ix. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, SPEDE Heat Continuous Discharge Canister- CS, #1072, cost: $32, quantity: 5. The Spede- Heat™ CS Canister is a high volume, continuous burn it expels its Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
21 payload in approximately 20- 40 seconds. The load is discharged through four vent ports on top of the canister, three on the side and one on the bottom. This launchable canister is 6.12 in. by 2.62 in. and holds approximately 2.9 oz. of the active agent.
x. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, Pocket Tactical CS Canister, #1016, cost: $25, quantity: 5. The Pocket Tactical CS Canister is small and lightweight. The 0.9 oz. of active agent will burn for approximately 20-40 seconds. It easily fits in most tactical pouches at 4.75 in. by 1.4 inches in size. This is a launchable canister; however, it is usually used as a signaling or covering device.
Though this device is slightly over four inches in length, it produces a smoke cloud so fast it appears to be an enveloping screen made by a full-size tactical canister.
xi. Chemical Agent : Defense Technology Riot Control Continuous Discharge Canister, #1080, cost $40, quantity: 15. The Riot Control OC Canister is designed for outdoor use in crowd control situations with a high- volume continuous burn that expels its payload in approximately 20-40 seconds through four vent ports located on the top of the canister. This canister can be used to conceal tactical movement or to route a crowd. The volume of smoke and agent is vast and obtrusive. This launchable canister is 6.0 in. by 2.35 in. and holds approximately 0.88 oz. of the active agent.
xii. Chemical agent : Defense Technology, OC T riple-Chaser Separating Canister, #1020, cost: $60, quantity: 10. The OC Triple- Chaser Pyrotechnic Canister is one of our first -ever pyrotechnic canisters that combines the effectiveness of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) as an irritant and inflammatory agent with the flexible delivery methods, range, and area coverage of pyrotechnic munitions for crowd control. The Triple- Chaser OC consists of three separate canisters pressed together. This canister can be hand thrown or launched from a delivery system. The canister is 6.5 by 2.7 in. and holds approximately 1.06 oz. of active agent payload. It has an approximate burn time of 20-30 seconds.
xiii. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, OC Vapor Aerosol Canister, #1056, cost: $48, quantity: 20. The Defense Technology OC Vapor Aerosol Canister is for law enforcement and corrections use to deliver a high concentration of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) in a powerful mist. The canister is designed for indoor use in confined Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
22 areas and inflames the mucous membranes and exposed skin once deployed, resulting in an intense burning sensation. The incapacitating effect of the OC Vapor on the subject is dramatic, with minimal decontamination needed. Removing the subject from the affected area to fresh air will resolve respiratory effects within minutes. The OC Vapor Aerosol Canister is ideal for cell extractions or barricades where pyrotechnic, powder, or liquid devices are impractical or desired.
xiv. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, OC/CS A erosol Canister, #1050, cost: $57, quantity: 30. Designed for indoor use, this canister contains no CFCs, is not a fire hazard and requires minimal decontamination by comparison to smoke, powders, or liquids. The Aerosol Canister is most used in tactical situations by Law Enforcement and Corrections and was designed with indoor operations in mind when a non- fire-producing delivery system is desired. It is most effective when used in confined areas near the target area and used to minimize the risks to all parties through pain compliance, temporary discomf ort, and incapacitation of potentially violent or dangerous subjects. The Aerosol Canister is ideal for cell extractions or barricades where pyrotechnic, powder, or liquid devices are impractical or desired. The OC and CS combination provides sufficient ef fects in confined areas of 1,500 square feet.
xv. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, OC Aerosol Canister 1.3% fogger, 6 ounce, #56854, cost: $19, quantity: 20. The 6 oz. OC Aerosol Canister will deliver its 1.3% MC% OC payload in 20- 25 seconds. This is an anatomized mist that enhances the pungent
1.3% OC formulation. Ideal for area denial areas like attics, garages, etc. This device has minimum clean-up. The canister may also be handheld to direct the spray pattern. This product is designed to provide room -clearing ability with minimum clean -up requirements.
xvi. Chemical agent: Defense Technology, First Defense 0.7% MK-9S Vapor OC Aerosol, #43896, cost: $56, quantity: 5. The MK -9 features an easy-to-use trigger handle, is intended for use in crowd management and will deliver 14 short bursts of OC at an effective range of 18- 20 ft. This 1.3% MC OC aerosol product utilizes a stream delivery method providing a target -specific, strong concentrated stream for greater standoff.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
23 xvii. Chemical Agent: Defense Technology, First Defense 1.3% MK -9 fogger OC aerosol, #43953, cost: $56, quantity: 30. The MK -9 features an easy-to-use trigger handle, is intended for use in crowd management and will deliver 14 short bursts of OC at an effective range of 18-20 ft. This 1.3% MC OC aerosol product utilizes a cone or fogger delivery method, providing a wide spray pattern for easier area saturation.
xviii. Chemical Agent: Fox Labs Fogger OC Aerosol, cost: $60, quantity:
35. Contains 50+ one-second bursts. Heavy fog range is 20+ feet.
The discharge handle has a safety pin to avoid accidental discharge. It Contains marking UV Dye for assailant identification.
Non-flammable - TASER/ECD compatible Born- on-date stamped on each container, 3-year shelf life.
xix. Chemical Agent: Combined Tactical Systems (CTS), #5230B (CS Baffled Canister Grenade, Low Flame Potential), cost $59, quantity: 24. The CTS CS canister is the recommended canister for the SWAT Armored Rescue Vehicle “Gas Ram.” It has a high- volume continuous burn that expels its payload in approximately 20-40 seconds through four emission ports. This canister can be used to conceal tactical movement or to route a crowd. The volume of smoke and agent is vast and obtrusive. This launchable canister is 6.2 in. by 2.6 in. and holds approximately 23.5 grams of the active agent.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable. Situations for the use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
1. Dangerous and combative individuals.
2. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents.
3. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
24 4. Potentially vicious animals.
5. Training exercises or approved demonstrations.
d. Authorized Use
i. Officers with POST certification in chemical agents are authorized to use chemical agents.
e. Training
i. Sworn members utilizing chemical agent canisters are trained by POST less lethal and chemical agent instructors.
f. Life Span
i. Five years from the manufactured date.
g. Fiscal Impact
i. No annual maintenance.
h. Financial Account
i. General fund
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under the SMPD department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize chemical agents only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
10. PepperBall Launcher: Pepper Ball Launchers and Pepper Ball Munitions are non-lethal munitions system that employs paint ball launchers to fire “pepper balls” that contain powdered OC in place of the paint. The pepper ball delivery system combines chemical agent exposure with kinetic energy impact to aid in its effectiveness in addressing armed and/or violent individuals or crowds. Pepper ball munitions also include glass breaking rounds and marking rounds.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
25 a. Current Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Delivery system: PepperBall VKS carbine, cost: $1000, quantity: 1.
The Variable Kinetic System (VKS) is a compressed- air powered launcher designed to fire non- lethal PepperBall projectiles. The PepperBall VKS Carbine features a Dual Feed System that can quickly switch between Hopper and Magazine modes for optimum versatility.
ii. Delivery system: PepperBall FTC launcher, cost: $400, Quantity 5.
The Full Tactical Carbine (FTC) is a compressed- air powered launcher designed to fire non- lethal PepperBall projectiles. In addition, the PepperBall FTC features a Hopper Fed System that can hold up to 180 non-lethal PepperBall projectiles.
iii. Delivery system : PepperBall TCP, cost: $500, Quantity 1. The Tactical Compact Pistol (TCP) is a CO2 launcher designed to fire non-lethal PepperBall projectiles. The PepperBall TCP features a Magazine Fed System that contains small CO2 canisters inside that assist in deli vering the PepperBall Projectiles in a compact design. Each magazine can hold six non- lethal PepperBall projectiles.
iv. Munition: PepperBall Live projectile, cost: $2 per projectile, quantity: 1200. The basic PepperBall projectile contains 2% PAVA pepper powder designed for direct impact and area saturation, especially in confined interior spaces. The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280-350 FPS velocity. The projectile has a direct impact of 60ft and an area of saturation of 150+ ft. The projectile contains 0.5% PAVA Powder.
v. Munition: PepperBall LIVE -X projectile, cost: $3 per projectile, quantity: 1200. The Live projectile contains a concentrated amount of PAVA pepper powder. One round of LIVE -X contains the equivalent of 10 PepperBall rounds. The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280-350 FPS velocity. The projectile has a direct impact of 60ft and an area of saturation of 150+ ft. The projectile contains 5% PAVA Powder.
vi. Munition: PepperBall VXR LIVE-X projectile, cost: $3 per projectile, quantity: 200. The VXR Live-X projectile is a non-lethal round. The projectile contains approximately 10x the PAVA of the VXR LIVE projectile. This projectile is best for direct impact or area saturation.
The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280-425 FPS velocity. The projectile has a direct impact of 150ft Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
26 and an area of saturation of 390+ ft. The projectile contains 2.5% PAVA powder.
vii. Munition: PepperBall Marking projectile (round), cost $1 per projectile, Quantity: 375. The Marking projectile contains a paint solution that can be used to mark suspects for later apprehension and marking doors, openings, or objects for identification. The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280- 350 FPS velocity. The projectile directly impacts 60ft and has an area saturation of 150+ ft.
viii. Munition: PepperBall glass breaking (round), cost $3 per projectile, Quantity: 100. A solid polymer projectile is used for breaking out residential windows and side-glass of automobiles. Not for use on humans or animals. The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280-350 FPS velocity.
ix. Munition: PepperBall VXR marking projectile (shaped), cost $3 per projectile, Quantity: 50. The Marking Projectile contains a paint solution that can be used to mark suspects for later apprehension and marking doors, openings, or objects for identification. Excellent for direct impact or area saturation. The projectile is discharged from a PepperBall Launcher and has a 280-425 FPS velocity. The projectile has a direct impact of 150ft and an area saturation of 390+ ft.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable. Situations for the use of the less lethal weapon systems may include but are not limited to:
1. Dangerous and combative individuals.
2. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents.
3. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained.
4. Potentially vicious animals.
5. Training exercises or approved demonstrations.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only those officers who have been trained in the use of PepperBall launchers are authorized to use the PepperBall launchers.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
27 e. Training
i. Officers utilizing PepperBall launchers and projectiles are trained in their use by POST certified less lethal and chemical agent instructors.
f. Life Span
i. PepperBall launchers- 20 years
ii. PepperBall Live projectile- 3 years
iii. PepperBall Live-X projectile- 3 years
iv. PepperBall VXR Live-X projectile- 3 years
v. Glass Break projectiles – until used.
g. Fiscal Impact
i. Annual maintenance is approximately $50 for each PepperBall launcher.
h. Financial Account
i. Police department budget.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. Use is established under SMPD department policy. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize PepperBall only for official law enforcement purposes and under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
j. Complaints
i. There were no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
11. Robots: Unmanned ground vehicles (or robots) of any type that are capable of being remotely controlled as well as all the supporting or attached systems designed for gathering information through imaging, recording or by any other means. Unmanned Ground Vehicles can support officers in any hazardous incident which would benefit from a ground level perspective. This equipment can Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
28 be used to include barricaded suspects or high- risk tactical operations, disaster response, and use in crawl spaces or confined isolated areas to assist in searches for suspects or evidence.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Transend Vantage Robot, cost: $24,950.00 each, quantity: 1. The Vantage robot is a patrol / tactical robot capable of climbing over stairs and obstacles. It also offers audio and video data, night vision capabilities, add-on accessory capabilities, includi ng an arm and manipulator, and a chemical agent burn-safe delivery system. b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. To be used to remotely gain visual/audio data (to include night vision), deliver HNT phone, first aid supplies, open doors, direct delivery of chemical agents, drag victims to safety, move fire suppression equipment into place, and clear buildings.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate the robots. The Incident Commander establishes specific operational use.
e. Life Span
i. 8-10 years.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. The annual maintenance cost is approximately $1,000. g. Financial Account
i. Santa Maria Police Council
h. Training
i. All robot operators must receive training in the operation of the robot before use and about twenty hours per year.
i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. It is the policy of the SMPD to utilize robots only for official law enforcement purposes and in a manner that respects the privacy of our community under State and Federal law.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
29 j. Complaints
i. There have been no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
12. Kinetic Breaching Tool (KBT) and Breaching S hotgun System: During crisis situations, Breaching Shotguns, Breaching Ammunition, and/or Kinetic Breaching Equipment may become necessary to facilitate an entry into a specific location. It is critical the point of entry is breached quickly and as safely as possible. A quick and effective breach is one key to a successful tactical mission. In some instances, this equipment may be required to provide an added degree of safety and tactical advantage to accomplish a mission.
a. Current Inventory Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Purchase Cost i. Kinetic Breaching Tool, cost: $10,000.00 each, quantity: 2. Kinetic Breaching Equipment assists in breaching/opening doors that cannot be opened with traditional handheld rams or not otherwise penetrable by conventional or mechanical breaching. This equipment may be used to defeat door locks, bolts, cross -bolts, and hinges.
b. Proposed Description, Quantity, Capabilities, and Cost i. No new proposals for 2025-2026.
c. Purpose
i. This equipment is necessary to allow Santa Maria Police Department Officers to breach doors where traditional handheld rams would be ineffective primarily during hostage rescue situations or other exigent circumstances where conventional breaching would not be practical or effective.
d. Authorized Use
i. Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate the breaching equipment . The Incident Commander establishes specific operational use. e. Life Span
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
30 i. 10+ years.
f. Fiscal Impact
i. Kinetic Breaching Tool: Approximately $10,000 per unit to purchase. Maintenance is performed as needed, and the
associated costs vary.
ii. Breaching Shotgun System: Approximately $1,500 per shotgun to purchase and $4.50 per round to purchase. Maintenance is performed as needed, and the associated costs vary.
g. Financial Account
ii. Santa Maria Police Council
h. Training
i. Kinetic Breaching Tool: SMPD SWAT Team officers received one day of training from a manufacturer representative on the operation of this equipment, followed by annual training for applicable Santa Maria Police Department O fficers in the laws and policies surrounding the deployment of this equipment.
ii. Breaching Shotgun System: Completion of an 80- hour Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified SWAT school, followed by annual training for applicable Santa Maria Police Department SWAT Team Officers in the laws and policies surrounding the deployment of this equipment. i. Legal and Procedural Rules
i. SMPD shall only utilize this equipment for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with state and federal law, and applicable Department policy.
j. Complaints
i. There have been no complaints associated with this category of equipment.
k. Internal Audit:
i. The Department conducted an internal audit and determined there were no violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy with this category of equipment.
Santa Maria Police Department
Annual Military Equipment Use Report
June 2024 – June 2025
31 Summary of Military Equipment
The inventory of military equipment, particularly consumable material (diversionary devices, various munitions, chemical agents, smoke canisters, etc.), fluctuates regularly.
Fluctuation is based on various factors, including but not limited to operational usage, operational deterioration, training, maintenance, expiration, and replenishment guidelines. The Santa Maria Police Department is committed to transparency in disclosing its military equipment inventory and related information to our comm unity and elected officials in compliance with the law.