Irwin police expected to get new guns

Irwin Borough Council is expected to approve a request for six duty weapons for the police department, ensuring officers will have new, standardized equipment.

The anticipated approval is for six duty weapons and two holsters from Witmer Public Safety Group Inc. of Coatsville for $6,074. The cost is discounted for police departments, Chief Dan Wensel told council last week.

Wensel explained that standardizing the weapons among the officers could significantly enhance officer safety in the event of an emergency. Currently, officers in a small department such as Irwin own the weapons they use while on duty, which can create logistical problems.

“In critical situations, we would not be able to use their (another officer’s) ammunition because the officers could have different guns,” Wensel said. “God forbid we are in a gunfight.”

Wensel proposed Irwin purchase six Glock weapons, which shoot a 9 mm bullet. The weapon includes red dot sights and a flashlight, the chief said. Although there are six officers, the department only needs two holsters because four of the officers have their own, Wensel added.

None of the council members expressed opposition last week. If approved this week, officers could receive the new guns within about six weeks, Wensel said.

By purchasing the guns, the borough would own the weapons. Officers would leave the guns with the department should they leave the borough’s police force, Wensel noted.