Lake County sheriff's deputies, including school resource officers, are better equipped to combat crime after the purchase of semiautomatic rifles.

Lake County Sheriff Gary Borders said on Wednesday that his office purchased 100 Bushmaster .223-semiautomatic carbine rifles "in light of recent events that have taken place throughout our nation involving dangerous criminals and their use of bulletproof vests and high-powered assault rifles."

Borders said criminals are attempting to gain an edge over law enforcement by arming themselves more heavily.

"I think it's important for us as law enforcement professionals to be mindful of the trends displayed by criminals and to remain proactive by equipping ourselves with the most effective tools available. These weapons will not only serve to better protect law enforcement personnel, but will also enhance the safety of the general public," Borders said.

Lake County sheriff's deputies already had semiautomatic guns, but the new firearms are designed to provide for easier handling and greater accuracy than the previous models, which were traded in toward the purchase price of the new weapons, according to officials.

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