More than 20 law enforcement officers in Red River County will now have brand new Level 3 vests for daily wear thanks to a generous donation from out-of-state.
“Sergeant Shawn Roden and I did an interview on NBC 6 yesterday afternoon and not long after it aired, I received an email from Mr. Christopher Westfall in South Carolina who said he wanted to help,” said the president of the Lamar County Adopt-A-Cop Amanda Willows.
That help came in the form of a $10,000 donation which will provide 22 vests for officers in Red River County.
“I literally cried when Mr. Westfall told me what he was doing for the Red River County Officers,” said Willows. “I’m thankful to know they will all have the vests they need but am also happy that they can see that they are appreciated.”
Westfall, who is a former Sergeant out of Volusia County for 10-years, said he knows the job all too well.
Sgt. Roden said that most of the vests that officers wear in Red River County were expired.
Body Armor News explains on their website, that the majority of the United States’ body armor has a standard National Institute of Justice five-year service rating. When a vest is worn each day, it loses the protective capability quicker than one that sits on a shelf.
“Our officers will be very grateful and it’s a good feeling to know there are people who care about us and our protection while were protecting others,” said Sgt. Roden.
Any of the donated funds left will go towards trauma kits for Red River Co officers.
