The Taxation and Revenue Department has spent thousands of dollars on weapons and ammunition that it is not legally allowed to use.
KRQE-TV reports that the department, which investigates tax fraud cases, does not have anybody on staff that has the police certification required to execute a search warrant — the dangerous part of their job that would require a weapon. Since Tax Fraud Investigations Division was established 10 years ago only two members have had the certification.
The division has purchased equipment including nine Glock handguns, more than 9,000 rounds of ammunition, bullet proof vests and tactical knee pads.
Taxation and Revenue Secretary Demesia Padilla says until more officers receive their certification, the arsenal is just collecting dust and wasting money.
She says two or three employees will be certified by January.
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Information from: KRQE-TV.
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