Tom Green County Sheriff's Office Upgrades Firearms with Funds from Criminal Convictions

The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office has outfitted its deputies with more than 50 state-of-the-art rifles, replacing an aging inventory, many that had been in service for over two decades. The new rifles-manufactured by L9 Manufacturing (L9 MFG), a brand under the umbrella of Sons of Liberty Gun Works in San Antonio-were acquired using over $115,000 in seized funds stemming from successful criminal prosecutions.

The year-long procurement process included in-depth research and hands-on evaluations of equipment from multiple manufacturers. Following a site visit to the L9 facility, Sheriff Nick Hanna determined the company's rifles were the best fit for the operational needs of the agency.

All Patrol, Mental Health, and Criminal Investigations Division Deputies have now been issued upgraded rifles equipped with red dot optics, lights, and slings. In addition, members of the Sheriff's Office Special Response Team (SRT) received short-barreled rifles complete with suppressors, advanced optics, and tactical lighting systems.

"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," said Sheriff Hanna. "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 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.