Community members are invited to join the Ventura Police Department for a community presentation about the Annual Military Equipment Report on Wednesday, June 28, at 6:00 p.m. at the Ventura Police Headquarters, located at 1425 Dowell Drive.
The presentation will provide an overview of the report, highlighting the specific equipment acquired and its use. Staff will also discuss the Department’s policies and procedures governing the use of military equipment in the City of Ventura and foster a dialogue about these important community safety tools.
“We recognize the importance of open communication and want to reinforce our commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism in sharing information with our residents,” said Chief Darin Schindler. “It’s our goal that community members have a comprehensive understanding of how these resources are employed to safeguard public safety.”
The term “military equipment” does not necessarily indicate equipment used by the military. Military equipment includes, but is not limited to, unmanned aerial or ground vehicles, armored vehicles, command and control vehicles, less lethal 40mm projectile launchers, noise flash diversionary devices, and various forms of ammunition.
The equipment possessed by the Ventura Police Department is used by law enforcement agencies nationwide to further increase resident and officer safety and safely resolve incidents that might otherwise rise to a level of lethal force.
The report and corresponding community meeting are part of legislation (Assembly Bill 481) signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 30, 2021, intended to provide government oversight when California law enforcement agencies seek to fund, acquire, and/or use “military equipment.”
On May 23, 2022, the Ventura City Council adopted Ordinance 2022-06, establishing a Military Equipment Policy for the Police Department, as required by AB 481. On June 12, 2023, the City Council received the Annual Military Equipment Report and approved the continued use of the specified equipment.
For questions, contact Commander Sarah Heard at [email protected] or 805-339-4460.