UPDATE: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - All officers are required to take a rifle on patrol and The department allows the use of two model types, the Remington 870 Shotgun and Colt A-R-15 Semi-Automatic rifle.

Through this program the township would provide sworn employees with an interest free loan, over two years for $2,000, to be paid back by the employee through monthly payroll deductions. The program is only available for the Colt A-R-15 Semi-Automatic.

Once the officer completed the final payment the rifle would become the property of the officer with the expectation the weapon would continue to be used by the officer on patrol.

Meridian Township Police Chief, David Hall, said, “If the officer has access to their own weapon they train with their own weapon, it’s set up with how they are comfortable and so it makes them more proficient with the weapon and they’re comfortable with it and they’re more accurate.”

The officers participating in the program will be required to purchase rifle slings and weapon mounted lights.

Chief Hall said he believes about two, thirds of the department will be interested in participating in the program.


ORIGINAL STORY: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Township Board recently approved the Rifle Purchase Plan for the Meridian Township Police Department.