by The Pennsylvania State Police have announced a shift in their weaponry strategy, deciding to transition away from shotguns for duty use. The move is part of an ongoing evaluation of the department’s equipment needs.
In a statement released on Tuesday, State Police confirmed that Troopers will no longer be assigned shotguns. Instead, they will be issued .223-caliber rifles, which offer “advantages including a longer effective range,” according to the department.
This decision comes amid growing concerns over the use of shotguns by law enforcement. One high-profile incident involved the tragic death of West York Borough Officer Andrew Duarte during a hostage situation in York County. Pellets from a shotgun fired by police struck Duarte multiple times, leading to his death.
While State Police have not confirmed whether this change is directly related to Duarte’s death, they have emphasized the importance of re-evaluating equipment choices. The department also highlighted their previous shift in firearms, noting that in 2024, they transitioned from the Sig-Sauer P227 .45 caliber handgun to the Walther PDP 9mm pistol for their duty sidearm.
By opting for rifles with longer ranges, the State Police aim to improve safety and effectiveness in various law enforcement scenarios.
