Title: How Local Police in the USA Acquire Military Equipment

The sight of police officers in military-style gear has become increasingly common across America. This militarized equipment often comes from federal initiatives like the 1033 and 1122 programs.

The 1033 program allows the Department of Defense to transfer excess military equipment to local law enforcement agencies for free, minus shipping and maintenance costs. Since its start, over 11,500 agencies have gotten over $7.4 billion in gear. The 1122 program lets police buy new militarized items using their budgets but with federal discounts.

Attempts to amend the 1033 program after Ferguson were blocked or overturned. To experts like Alex Vitale, a professor at Brooklyn College, these programs let defense contractors create new revenue streams, not boost public safety.

A core issue is the lack of oversight and accountability. The federal government doesn’t monitor the 1122 program like other grants. And the 1033 program has placed advanced weapons in the hands of small town and campus police with no clear need.

In some cases, the equipment has simply gone missing due to poor record keeping and auditing. The National Police Foundation says most 1033 gear is non-lethal, like protective equipment and clothing. But the militarization trend is worrying to experts.

Thomas Nolan, a professor at Emmanuel College, notes that heavy-handed riot gear often inflames tensions at protests instead of keeping the peace. The intimidating gear distracts police from their core duty - protecting communities.

While data shows local agencies use and value surplus military equipment, many experts argue these federal programs have fueled the broader militarization of police. They call for more oversight and for departments to carefully examine what gear they request and why they need it. The public good, not revenue for contractors, should drive decisions around policing.

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-Jason

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