PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) – New bulletproof vests are protecting Plattsburgh police officers thanks to help from a federal grant.
The Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program offsets some of the costs for departments that buy vests.
The Plattsburgh Police Department purchased seven new pieces of body armor this year. The vests cost $1,000 a piece, and the grant covers 50% of the cost
The department applies for the grants every year. They only apply to new hires.
“It is good because it is cost savings that we can, you know, if we are saving money, we are saving taxpayer money essentially and it affords good quality protection,” Plattsburgh Police Lt. Joshua Pond said.
He says the addition of the new recruits brings the patrol force to 31 officers.