Final answer:
The correctness of the statement about officers carrying department issued weapons off duty depends on individual police department policies and local laws. There is no universal rule for off-duty carry by officers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that officers are highly encouraged to carry department issued weapons while off duty may or may not be true depending on the policies of individual police departments. Generally, police officers are allowed to carry firearms while off duty, but whether they are encouraged to carry department issued weapons specifically, or any weapon that they are qualified to use, varies by department. Policies for off-duty carry are set by each law enforcement agency and can also be influenced by local and state laws. In some jurisdictions, off-duty officers are indeed encouraged to carry their department issued weapons for uniformity and because they are familiar with the operation and feel of their service firearm. However, it's important to remember that each police department has its own rules and standards, and an officer must follow their department's guidelines on off-duty carry.