The military uses Humvees and other armored vehicles to fight enemies overseas, but local law enforcement are using the same vehicles to fight crime.

The most recent example comes from Ferguson, Missouri where police there used armored vehicles to respond to riots in the street. Critics say it blurs the line between the military and domestic law enforcement.

But Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco says he won't apologize for using surplus military vehicles because they are needed to keep deputies and the community safe.

Sheriff Nocco says some examples of when armored vehicles are needed include standoffs, police shootings, even tropical storms.

"In those kind of situations where West Pasco is severely flooded, we know we will have to go in there to rescue people," said Nocco.

Some argue the those kinds of vehicles belong on battlefields only. Sheriff Nocco says he won't apologize for using that kind of equipment because it keeps people safe.

"The Pasco County Sheriffs Office is going to use them to protect our citizens and protect our deputies," Nocco said.

Pasco County's force isn't alone.

Tampa Police have used an armored vehicle during tropical storms, and also in the manhunt for Dontae Morris, the man convicted of shooting and killing two police officers. Several other local agencies have purchased military surplus vehicles as well.

"The reason why we're getting this equipment is because our law enforcement officers are facing horrible situations," said Nocco. "If we can prevent one law enforcement officer's funeral because of the equipment we got, I think that's a very good thing."