Northampton police officers are now more prepared to respond in the event someone threatens or attempts to shoot an officer.

At Thursday's council meeting, Vice President and Police Committee Chairman Robert McHale reported the police department, under Chief Ron Morey, purchased three M-16 rifles.

McHale said the funds for the weapons were available in the borough budget.

The officers regularly undergo weapons mandatory training where they fire revolvers.

"It should be noted that they completed their mandatory qualification," said borough Manager Gene Zarayko.

The borough police recently acquired tasers and completed certified training.

A taser will render a suspect incapacitated for a short period of time, allowing the officer to safely and swiftly place the suspect in custody.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr., a retired borough police officer, said the weapons ensure the safety of the town.

The borough's newest police officer, Michael Buchman, passed his psychological evaluation, McHale reported. Buchman is scheduled this week to undergo a physical examination, the final step before Mayor Thomas Reenock administers the oath of office and he begins his duties as a full-time police officer.