In order to keep Red Bay safe, the Red Bay Police Department needs to keep themselves safe as well. To help with this, the Franklin County Community Development Commission approved their grant request for replacement body armor.

The RBPD’s goal for body armor is to update every five years. With this year falling into that category, the department knew that it was time to upgrade. “This year’s armor is an updated quality of vest,” said Chief Janna Jackson. “The vests ordered are more lightweight with better maneuverability for officers and have a moisture management system built in.”

The $1,500 grant was approved in mid-November. FCCDC member Brad Bolton expressed the commission’s honor in helping officers get the protection they need to be safe against any harm that they might face on the job. “The development fund is proud to assist law enforcement across the county in keeping our police force fully protected,” said Bolton.

Jackson and the rest of the department know the importance of proper body armor and she said they are very thankful for the FCCDC’s generous help. “We have a policy that requires officers to wear body armor for officer safety,” said Chief Jackson. “It is our goal to provide officers with the best updated equipment to ensure officer safety.  Our department is very appreciative of the grant money from the FCCDC.”