VIDEO: Broken Arrow Police deploying new tactical rifles to fight crime

Broken Arrow police officers are upgrading their arsenal.

Officers are switching from the 12-gauge shotgun to the AR-15 rifle.

Broken Arrow Police Corporal Leon Calhoun tells KRMG that it is a matter of staying ahead of criminals.

"We are encountering suspects that have greater firepower. So in order for us to do our job, to be able to protect ourselves and the public, we need the firepower to counteract those threats."

Cpl. Calhoun says Broken Arrow citizens won't see the weapons everyday.

Calhoun says, "We're not going to have our AR-15's out in routine situations (traffic stops, etc.). That's only if the situation arises where we need greater firepower."

Officers are still able to carry their shotguns if they choose.

Cpl. Calhoun tells KRMG that the AR-15's are being issued to give officers more options in certain situations.