Newtown police officers will now be able to carry a concealed firearm as a secondary weapon in the event they are unable to use their primary holstered firearm.  Police Commission members unanimously approved the policy revision at their meeting last month. 

Chief James Viadero says this was prompted by a July incident at a Sandy Hook bar.  A man involved in an altercation assaulted two police officers and attempted to remove one of their service pistols from its holster.  Police used a taser and pepper spray to subdue the man. 

The revised policy does lay out guidelines, including that the officer demonstrate proficiency in the backup gun’s use at least once a year. Viadero noted that there is a varying level of interest among police officers in carrying a concealed secondary firearm.