Sheriff’s Office Replaces Aging Rifles with $115K in New Firearms Bought Using Seized Funds

 

SAN ANGELO, TX — Some of the rifles carried by Tom Green County deputies had been in service for more than 20 years—until now.

A $115,000 investment using seized criminal funds has equipped the sheriff’s office with more than 50 new rifles. 

The new rifles were manufactured by L9 Manufacturing (L9 MFG), a brand under Sons of Liberty Gun Works based in San Antonio. The purchase was the result of a year-long evaluation process, which included side-by-side testing of various models, consultations with manufacturers, and a site visit to the L9 facility. After reviewing multiple options, Sheriff Nick Hanna selected L9’s platform as the most suitable for the department’s needs.

Each new rifle issued to Patrol, Mental Health, and Criminal Investigations Division Deputies comes equipped with red dot optics, mounted lights, and slings. Members of the Special Response Team (SRT) received short-barreled rifles featuring suppressors, advanced optics, and tactical lighting for enhanced tactical response capabilities.

“These new rifles are more than just equipment—they are the lifesaving tools of our profession, which allow us to respond swiftly and decisively to protect lives and restore safety,” Hanna said. “Our deputies must be prepared for any situation in both remote and urban areas of our county, and this upgrade ensures they have reliable, modern resources to protect themselves and the citizens they serve.”

The rifles were acquired using funds seized during successful criminal investigations and prosecutions, a process made possible through coordination with the District Attorney’s Office and state and federal law enforcement agencies.

"The Sheriff's Office extends its gratitude to the District Attorney's Office, as well as its state and federal law enforcement partners, for their continued collaboration in investigations and prosecutions that make these asset seizures and subsequent reinvestments in public safety possible," information stated. 

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