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The department so far has $13,000 from the New Jersey Body Armor Replacement Fund and has applied for more from the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act for the balance. Under the federal grant, the federal government will provide up to 50% of the total cost of the vests purchased.
“All of the vests being purchased will meet or exceed the requirements and standards of the National Institute of Justice standards for body armor vests,” Deputy Police Chief Robert White said.
They are being provided by Atlantic Tactical, of Somerset, at $900 each, including a special impact threat plate and individualized personal carrier.
The department has been replacing its body armor regularly after 5 or more years of use. The previous department-wide purchases were made in 2000 and 2007, White said.
“We recently implemented a “mandatory wear policy” of the vests for all officers engaging in work duty and which is a requirement for the grant funding,” the deputy chief said. “As police administrators, our active and primary goal in acquiring this grant funding and participating in the program is to provide each and every officer with the very best personal protection and safety for them and their families.
“I’m glad we are able to do this through grant funding and at no expense to the township,” he said.
PHOTOS: Courtesy SADDLE BROOK PD
ABOVE: New Saddle Brook police recruit Rebecca Sanchez tries on the body armor
BELOW (l-r): Tom Denitzio (regional sales manager of Atlantic Tactical), Saddle Brook Police Chief Robert Kugler, new Officers
Rebecca Sanchez, Marc Buchak and Christopher Verost, Deputy Chief Robert White
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