Issue link: https://let.epubxp.com/i/407623
Photos courtesy of Brookhaven (Ga.) Police Department and Burlington (N.C.) Police Department PROTECTION & APPAREL 34 Law Enforcement Technology November 2014 www.officer.com By Sara Scullin Purchase Profiles: Body armor to balance the unknown W hen the time finally comes to acquire new gear, it's kind of a big deal. And when that gear is body armor that's something to look forward to. Not only is this equipment life-saving, but it's becoming profoundly more comfortable and easier to incorporate into daily life. Officers in Kentucky got an armor overhaul the past few months when the state's Law Enforcement Protection Program (LEPP) awarded more than $100,000 to 18 agencies. Through LEPP, the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security provides financial help for certain items essential to duty. After the money shows up agencies like those in Kentucky must decide what to buy, and also think about whether now 's the right time to add a few words to department policies pertaining to these items. Getting the green light That's where Brookhaven (Georgia) Police Department finds itself now. Brookhaven PD launched its first patrol forces in July 2013 and now has 60 sworn officers and seven civilian staff members. This past October the Department of Justice awarded the Georgia department close to $12,000 in grants for bulletproof vests; the money was ultimately used to reimburse the city for vests purchased throughout the