2025 Assembly Bill 481 Report

MILITARY EQUIPMENT (SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT) INVENTORY AND FISCAL IMPACT
2025 ASSEMBLY BILL 481 REPORT

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The following constitutes a list of qualifying specialized equipment currently available for use by the Banning Police Department, deemed to be “Military Equipment” under Section 7070 of the California Government Code:

Unmanned, Remotely Piloted, Powered Vehicles (Govt Code 7070(c)(1)): Remotely piloted machines operating on the ground or in the air (e.g., aerial drones and robots), utilized to enhance the safety of community members and officers.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost:
A. DJI MAVIC MINI – Miniature UAS that weighs approximately 249 grams and can record video and audio. Approximately 30-minute flight time. Cost: $400.00 (Lifespan 3-5 years) Quantity: 2
B. DJI MAVIC ENTERPRISE DUALS – UAS that has a color and infrared camera, light, and audible loudspeaker. Capable of video recording. Weighs 899 grams and has an approximately 30-minute flight time. Cost: $8,500.00 (Lifespan 3-5 years) Quantity: 1
C. Applied Research Associates (ARA) Pointman – Compact, military grade tactical robot that keeps the operator at a safe distance while providing video surveillance of multi-story structures, facility perimeters and vehicles. 19” wide, 13” long, 6.75” tall, and 18 pounds. Approximately 5-6 hour run time. Cost: 23K-35K Quantity: 1

2. Purpose: To be deployed when its view would assist officers or incident commanders with the following situations, which include but are not limited to:
A. Post-incident crime scene preservation and documentation,
B. Response to hazardous materials spills,
C. Traffic collision investigations,
D. Search and Rescue (SAR) missions as defined in the Department Policy Manual,
E. Public safety and life preservation missions to include, but not limited to barricaded suspects, hostage situations, active shooters, apprehension of armed and dangerous and/or violent suspects, and high-risk search warrants,
F. Disaster response and recovery to include natural or human-caused disasters including a full overview of a disaster area for post-incident analysis and documentation,
G. Training flights in support of the Department UAS Training Manual,
H. For fire response and prevention,
I. When there is reasonable belief that (1) the UAS may record images of a place, thing, condition, or event; and (2) that those images would be relevant in proving that a crime had occurred or is occurring, or that a particular person committed or is committing a crime and use of the UAS does not infringe upon the reasonable expectation of privacy,
J. Pursuant to a search warrant,
K. Inspection of Banning city property and facilities, to include locations designated under the US Department of Homeland Security’s Critical Infrastructure Sectors,
L. Production of video for the Department and other city departments for promotional, educational, and/or training purposes.

3. Authorized Use: Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate any UAS during approved missions.

4. Training: All Department UAS operators will be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration for UAS operation under 14CFR Part 107. In addition, each operator must attend ongoing training.

5. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only deploy the UAS for official law enforcement purposes or approved missions pursuant to applicable Federal & State laws, Banning PD Policy, and in a manner that respects the privacy of our community.

Mobile Command Vehicle (MCV) (Govt Code 7070(c)(5)): This vehicle is used during critical incidents as a field-based command post and community outreach events.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost: The MCV is a 2006 Ford chassis, Winnebago Industries SHE motorhome. The vehicle is 30’ long, 12’ tall, 9’ wide, and has a 20,500-pound GVWR. The vehicle can operate as a mobile briefing room, mobile dispatch center, and major incident command post. Cost: $100,000 new - Quantity: 1

2. Purpose: Used for critical incidents based on the circumstances of a specific event, large events, or natural disasters to serve the community effectively and efficiently.

3. Authorized Use: Only personnel trained in the use and deployment of the MCV shall drive the vehicle under the direction of the Watch Commander, Incident Commander, Detective Bureau, or their designee. Situations where the MCV may be deployed include but are not limited to critical incidents, natural disasters, community outreach events and emergencies.

4. Expected Lifespan: The MCV's estimated lifespan is 15 years; however, upgrades are required at 5-year intervals to maintain communications and IT systems.

5. Fiscal Impact: The MCV was purchased in 2007 using general funding. Annual maintenance cost is estimated to be $5,500.

6. Training: Drivers/Operators shall receive safe handling and maneuvering training. Once the operator has shown competence in vehicle handling, the driver/operator will drive the vehicle with an experienced driver throughout the city.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: Command and control vehicles will only be operated by department members who have been trained in their operation and according to Department Policy.

Armored Vehicle (Govt Code 7070(c)(2)): This vehicle is used during critical incidents where the need for armored protection is needed.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost: The Armored Vehicle is a 1992 Ford F700, fully armored vehicle. Cost: $0 (Donated retired Armored Bank Vehicle) Quantity: 1

2. Purpose: Used for critical incidents based on the circumstances of a specific event, large events, or natural disasters to serve the community effectively and efficiently. Provides armored safety for officers and citizens when deployed.

3. Authorized Use: Only personnel trained in the use and deployment of the Armored Vehicle shall drive the vehicle under the direction of the Watch Commander, Incident Commander, Detective Bureau, or their designee. Situations where the Armored Vehicle may be deployed include but are not limited to critical incidents, natural disasters, community outreach events and emergencies.

4. Expected Lifespan: The Armored Vehicle's estimated lifespan is 20 years; however, regular maintenance has extended the life and use capabilities of the vehicle.

5. Fiscal Impact: The Armored Vehicle was donated to the Banning Police Department as a retired Armored Bank Vehicle. Annual maintenance cost is estimated to be $5,500.

6. Training: Drivers/Operators shall receive safe handling and maneuvering training. Once the operator has shown competence in vehicle handling, the driver/operator will drive the vehicle with an experienced driver throughout the city.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: Command and control vehicles will only be operated by department members who have been trained in their operation and according to Department Policy.

Less Lethal 12 Gauge Shotgun and Munitions (Govt Code 7070(c)(14)): Less lethal shotguns are utilized by Department personnel as a less-lethal tool to deploy less-lethal impact munitions.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost:
A. The Banning Police Department utilizes both the Remington 870 and Mossberg A590 pump action, 12-gauge shotguns. These shotguns are outfitted with orange stocks and foregrips to be clearly marked as a less lethal tool. It will fire a 12 gauge drag stabilized bean bag. Cost: $600.00 Remington 870 / Mossberg A590 $600.00 - Quantity: 13
B. Drag Stabilized 12-gauge Bean Bag Round – The Drag Stabilized™ 12-Gauge Round is a translucent 12-Gauge shell loaded with a 40-Gram tear shaped bag made from a cotton and ballistic material blend and filled with #9 shot. This design utilizes four stabilizing tails and utilizes smokeless powder as the propellant. The 12-Gauge Drag Stabilized Round has secured its place as the Law Enforcement Communities’ number one choice for specialty impact munitions. This round has a velocity of 270 fps with a maximum effective range of 75 feet. Cost: $9.20 per round - Quantity: 500

2. Purpose:  Lawful application of force delivered with the intent to subdue or render non-threatening. The less lethal munitions may be used as an option to de-escalate a potentially dangerous/deadly situation, with a reduced potential for death or serious injury to all persons involved. It is accepted that the probability exists for bodily harm to occur. However, it must also be accepted that the application of such force may be the only alternative to using lethal force to stop the subject’s actions.

3. Authorized Use: Situations where the deployment of less-lethal impact or chemical munitions is authorized include but are not limited to:
A. Self-destructive, dangerous, and/or combative individuals.
B. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents where the criminal behavior involved exceeds a failure to disburse or curfew violation.
C. Circumstances where a tactical advantage could be obtained.
D. Tactical situations involving the deployment of the Department personnel.

4. Expected Lifespan: The less lethal shotguns have an expected lifespan of approximately 15 years depending upon use.

5. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $50 each.

6. Training: Prior to deploying 12-gauge less lethal shotguns and munitions, members must complete a certified course in the operation of 12-gauge less lethal shotguns and munitions which is conducted by Banning Police Department Certified Range Staff. Additionally, all members that operate any Less Lethal Devices are required to pass a qualification course of instruction according to department policy.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only utilize less lethal devices in accordance with State and federal law and Department policy.

Pepper Ball Launcher and Munitions (Govt Code 7070(c)(12)): A device that allows a law enforcement officer to maintain distance from an assailant or crowd.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost:
A. Pepper ball Launcher FTC- Semi-automatic, compressed air operated launcher, gravity feed, steel barrel with charging handle. Safety is a push button, cross bolt trigger safety. It will launch a standard Pepper ball projectile. The projectiles are fired at a velocity of between 300 to 350 feet per second. It has approximately 8-to-12-foot pounds of kinetic energy. The target range is 0-60 feet (individual), and a maximum range of 150 feet (area of saturation). Cost: $989.00 each with a loader - Quantity: 8
B. Pepper Ball Inert Practice Projectiles- Projectiles contain a harmless, scented powder, best suited for practice or direct impact when chemical exposure is not desired, are .68 caliber, and weigh 3 grams. Cost: $1.56 each - Quantity: 375
C. Live Projectiles- Projectiles contain 2.0% PAVA. It is effective for direct impact and area saturation. It is .68 caliber and weighs 3 grams. Cost: $2.40 each - Quantity: 375

2. Purpose: Lawful application of force delivered with the intent to subdue or render non-threatening. The less lethal munitions may be used as an option to de-escalate a potentially dangerous/deadly situation, with a reduced potential for death or serious injury to all persons involved. It is accepted that the probability exists for bodily harm to occur. However, it must also be accepted that the application of such force may be the only alternative to using lethal force to stop the subject’s actions.

3. Authorized Use: Situations where the deployment of less-lethal impact or munitions is authorized include but are not limited to:
A. Self-destructive, dangerous, and/or combative individuals.
B. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents where the criminal behavior involved exceeds a failure to disburse or curfew violation.
C. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained.

4. Expected Lifespan: 
A. Pepper ball FTC Launcher: 20 years
B. All Pepper ball projectiles have a life span of 3 years.

5. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance for the Pepper ball FTC Launcher is approximately $50 each.

6. Training: Prior to deploying the Pepper Ball Launcher and its munitions, members must complete a certified course in the operation of the Pepper Ball Launcher. Additionally, all members that operate any Less Lethal Devices are required to pass a qualification course of instruction according to department policy.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only utilize less lethal devices in accordance with State and Federal law and Department policy.

40MM / 37MM Launchers and Munitions (Govt Code 7070(c)(14)): 40MM Launchers are utilized by Department personnel as a less-lethal tool to deploy less-lethal impact munitions.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost:
A. Federal Laboratories 37MM launcher. This is a single shot launcher with break-action loading. The safety features are a push button and cross-bolt trigger safety. It will fire standard 37MM less-lethal 37MM less-lethal round up to 150 feet. Cost: $975.00 - Quantity: 1
B. Defense Technologies 40MM launcher. This is a single shot launcher with break-action loading. The safety features are a push button and cross-bolt trigger safety. It will fire standard 40MM less-lethal 40MM less-lethal round up to 150 feet. Cost: $1265.00 - Quantity: 2
C. Defense Technologies, 40MM Exact Impact Sponge Round. A less lethal 40MM sponge round that is smokeless, and 4 inches long. The 40MM sponge projectile is fired from a single or multi-round purpose-built 40MM Launcher. The 60-gram sponge baton is a projectile delivering a blunt trauma effect. The 40MM exact impact sponge round provides accurate and effective performance when fired from the approved distance of not less than three (5) feet from the target. The optimal Range for the 40MM sponge round is 10 to 75 feet. Cost: $22.02, per round - Quantity: 96

2. Purpose: Lawful application of force delivered with the intent to subdue or render non-threatening. The less lethal munitions may be used as an option to de-escalate a potentially dangerous/deadly situation, with a reduced potential for death or serious injury to all persons involved. It is accepted that the probability exists for bodily harm to occur. However, it must also be accepted that the application of such force may be the only alternative to using lethal force to stop the subject’s actions.

3. Authorized Use: Situations where the deployment of less-lethal impact or chemical munitions is authorized include but are not limited to:
A. Self-destructive, dangerous, and/or combative individuals.
B. Riot/crowd control and civil unrest incidents where the criminal behavior involved exceeds a failure to disburse or curfew violation.
C. Circumstances where a tactical advantage could be obtained.
D. Tactical situations involving the deployment of the Department personnel.

4. Expected Lifespan:
A. Federal Laboratories and Defense Technology are both 20 years.
B. Ammunition: 5 years.

5. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $50 each.

6. Training: Prior to deploying 40MM Launchers and Munitions, members must complete a POST-certified course in the operation of 40MM Launchers and Munitions. Additionally, all members that operate any Less Lethal Devices are required to pass a qualification course of instruction according to department policy.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only utilize less lethal devices in accordance with State and federal law and Department policy. 

Rifles and Ammunition (Govt Code 7070(c)(10)): Shoulder-fired firearms with rifling cut into their barrels are intended to cause projectiles to spin, improving accuracy over a long distance.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost: AR-15 Style .223/5.56 Rifle. A lightweight, shoulder-fired, magazine-fed, gas-operated rifle with a long spirally grooved barrel intended to make a bullet spin and thereby have greater accuracy over a long distance with greater ballistic capabilities than a pistol. Modular accessories aiding operation and use may vary on each rifle.
A. Colt AR15 M4 Rifles - Cost: $0 - Government funded 10-33 Program - Quantity: 4
B. Colt M16 Rifles - Cost: $0 - Government funded 10-33 Program - Quantity: 6
C. M14 Rifles
Cost: $0 - Government funded 10-33 Program - Quantity: 7

2. Purpose: A precision weapon is used to address a threat with better accuracy at greater distances than a handgun.

3. Authorized Use: Members who are POST-certified in the use of rifles are authorized to deploy them in the field, except in emergency situations.

4. Expected Lifespan: The rifles listed above have an expected lifespan of approximately 12 years depending upon use.

5. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance for each rifle is approximately $50.00.

6. Training: Prior to deploying a rifle, members must complete a POST-certified course on its operation. Additionally, all members are required to pass a rifle range qualification according to department policy.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only utilize firearms in accordance with State law, Federal law, and Department policy.

Specialized Firearms and Ammunition (Govt Code 7070(c)(10)): Heckler & Koch 9mm MP5. Less than .50 caliber, including firearms and accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code § 30515, with the exception of standard-issue handguns.

1. Description, capabilities, quantity, and cost: Heckler & Koch 9mm MP5 - Cost: $2200.00 each - Quantity: 15

2. Purpose: This rifle is authorized for a SWAT Operator only and may be deployed in any circumstance where the officer can articulate a reasonable expectation that the rifle may be needed.

3. Authorized Use: Examples of some general guidelines for deploying the rifle may include but are not limited to:
A. Situations where the officer reasonably anticipates an armed encounter.
B. When the officer is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at long range.
C. Situations where an officer reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed a suspect's firepower.
D. When an officer reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor.

4. Expected Lifespan: The rifles listed above have an expected lifespan of approximately 20 years depending upon use.

5. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance for each rifle is approximately $50.00.

6. Training: Prior to deploying a rifle, members must complete a POST-certified course on its operation. Additionally, all members are required to pass a rifle range qualification according to department policy.

7. Legal and Procedural Rules: The Department will only utilize firearms in accordance with State law, Federal law, and Department policy.