Hamilton Police approved for new guns

Hamilton Police were asking for nearly $100,000 this afternoon to buy over two dozen military type assault rifles for front line officers.

The board approved the purchase of 26 Colt C8 assault rifles.

The Canadian made Colt C8 assault rifles are already being used in the 12 major police services in the province, and there are already 15 in use here in Hamilton.

Police Chief Eric Girt says he understands the optics of giving military type assault rifles to officers, but he says fire arm capabilities of criminals has increased, so this allows police to match that firepower.

With recreational marijuana use becoming legal in October, police forces across the country will be responsible for policing it’s use and sale.

Though we’re only a few months away, Chief Eric Girt says there are still a lot of questions that need to be answered, like where is it going to be sold, and how will police determine if drivers are under the influence.

As for the 40 or so illegal dispensaries that are operating within the City of Hamilton, Chief Girt says they will still be illegal, and police will still continue to raid them.