Policy Text
BUTTE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Military Equipment Use Policy
(Rev. 01/22/25)
PURPOSE
This policy establishes guidelines for the acquisition, funding, use and reporting of “military equipment”, as
the term is defined in Government Code section 7070, which takes effect January 1,2022.
This policy is intended to fulfill the obligations set forth in Assembly Bill No. 481 (2021-2022). These
obligations include but are not limited to seeking approval on specific items deemed to be “military
equipment” and requirements related to compliance, annual reporting, cataloging, and complaints regarding
these items. It should also be noted that some quantities and prices have been estimated.
While Government Code section 7070 classifies what constitutes “military equipment” for the purposes of
this policy, it does not necessarily indicate the items originated from the military. The majority of the items
listed herein have been procured by BCSO directly from private retailers, dealers or manufacturers and not
through the Department of Defense Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO) / 1033 program. Qualifying
items received through the LESO/1033 program have been identified. Furthermore, numerous items
classified as “military equipment” by Government Code section 7070 are substantially similar to, or, in some
cases, identical to items available for purchase by members of the public.
Except where otherwise expressly stated, the provisions of this policy shall be considered as guidelines. It is
recognized that the work of law enforcement is not always predictable and circumstances may arise which
warrant departure from these guidelines. It is the intent of this policy to be viewed from an objective
standard, taking into consideration the sound discretion entrusted to members of this office under the
circumstances reasonably available at the time of any incident.
This policy shall not be construed to create a higher standard or duty of care for civil or criminal liability
against the County, its officials or members. Violations of any provision(s) contained within this policy shall
only form the basis for office administrative action, training or discipline.
PROCEDURE
A. DEFINITIONS
1. Governing Body – The Butte County Board of Supervisors (“Board”).
2. Military Equipment – Any of the items as defined by California Government Code section 7070,
subsections (c)(1) through (c)(16).
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