US Military Donates $1.5B in Surplus Weapons to Police

The U.S. military has transferred $1.5 billion worth of armored vehicles and weapons, including mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles (MRAPs), to local police departments through its military surplus program. These vehicles, valued at approximately $700,000 each, are provided for free, raising questions about the appropriateness of such military-grade equipment for small and rural law enforcement agencies.

Major Philip Ridgell of the Boone County Sheriff’s Office highlighted the benefits of receiving these vehicles at no cost, emphasizing the importance of cost efficiency in budgeting for public safety. Critics, however, are concerned about the implications of giving away surplus military equipment, arguing it reflects mismanagement in federal budgeting and points to a deep-seated priority on military spending over community needs. To see the complete list of surplus giveaways, the Department of Defense makes this information accessible online.

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