The safety and operations of over 3,000 U.S. sheriffs hang in the balance as they appeal to President Joe Biden regarding a crucial sale.

Concerns mount as sheriffs across the nation implore President Biden to review the sale of Vista Outdoor’s ammunition sector to Czechoslovak Group due to potential foreign ties.

Vista Outdoor has long been a cornerstone in the law enforcement supply chain, providing essential ammunition and primers to various agencies. According to Daily Mail, the deal with the Czechoslovak Group, valued at $1.91 billion, is set to conclude in 2024, introducing potential complexities due to the buyer's controversial connections.

Implications for U.S. law enforcement supply chains

The sheriffs' outcry stems from fears that the transaction could interfere with their access to necessary supplies. Such disruptions could be catastrophic when global demand for ammunition is surging. CSG's alleged relationships with Russia and China are central to their concern, which they fear might compromise national security and law enforcement readiness.

The transaction is currently under the scrutiny of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) in a collective effort to avert any possible national security risks. The Biden administration has been proactive in refining CFIUS's capacity to examine foreign investments closely, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding American interests.

Rep. Clay Higgins emphasized the extent of the implications, commenting on the transaction's potential national security risks. Moreover, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo articulated apprehensions about CSG's increased influence in the American ammunition landscape. He stressed the significant position CSG would assume in the market, overshadowed by the looming concerns about national security.

Reactions from both sides of the transaction

CSG spokesperson Andrej Cirtek vehemently denied allegations concerning the company's international ties. Cirtek’s defense highlights CSG’s role as a major arms supplier to Ukraine and its possession of NATO security clearances. This, according to him, should dispel any rumors about unsavory connections.

Jason Vanderbrink from Vista Outdoor reassured that the brand's roots and operations remain profoundly American. He stressed the enduring American heritage of their ammunition brands. Despite these assurances, the tension surrounding this deal underscores its broader implications for national security and the essential services provided by law enforcement.

Sheriffs argue, "At this time of heightened global demand, any disruptions in access to affordable and reliable American-made ammunition and primers will hurt Sheriffs across the country." Their appeal reflects deep-seated worries about maintaining a steady and secure supply chain vital for their operations.

President Biden is scheduled to meet with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala as discussions advance. Although it is uncertain whether this specific sale will be on their agenda, the bilateral talks are expected to cover a range of pivotal issues.

Deepening concerns over foreign influence

The potential repercussions of this sale have mobilized sheriffs and drawn commentary from notable political figures. Former Trump National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien and Sen. J.D. Vance expressed their concerns regarding CSG's purported connections to foreign adversaries.

In light of these multifaceted concerns, Axios has reported potential enhancements to CFIUS's regulatory powers. These could include the imposition of substantial civil penalties, up to $5 million, for any misstatements or omissions in related filings, emblematic of a stricter regulatory environment potentially looming on the horizon.

Conclusion

To summarize, over 3,000 sheriffs across the United States are urging President Biden to reconsider the sale of Vista Outdoor’s ammunition division to Czechoslovak Group, fearing it could jeopardize their access to crucial supplies.

The deal, fraught with national security implications, is under intensive review by CFIUS and further complicated by allegations of CSG’s connections to Russia and China. Amidst global demand spikes and entrenched supply chains, the outcome of this deal holds critical importance for U.S. law enforcement and national security alike.