The Tampa Police Department just received a major donation that will give officers extra protection while on patrol.
The Yerrid Foundation, in partnership with Rise Tampa, Our Police Foundation presented Chief Eric Ward and members of the department with 75 active shooter response kits.
"This is designed more for patrol because those are the guys who get there first. While our tactical response team is responding guys on the street will be there first and they need to be protected," Chief Ward said.
The kits include:
- MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment)
- Plate Carrier with (2) ID Panels
- 1 Front 10x12 Level III+ SA Rifle Plate
- 1 Rear 10x12 Level III+ SA Rifle Plate
- 1 Carry Bag
The vests are external and are designed to be worn over the officer's uniform and in addition to existing soft body armor. The donated armor provides officers with an additional level of protection and is capable of defeating higher level rifle threats.
This armor is worn during active shooting and other high risk situations. Officer Lorraine Anderson said the vests not only provide protection, but also some peace of mind.
"I have a 4-year-old, so she's kind of starting to understand so when she hugs me goodbye and is able to see I have equipment to keep me safe I think it's easier to say OK, mommy’s got this," Officer Anderson said. "We're police officers all the time but we're mommy's, we're daddy's at home."
Chief Ward said with continued support from local foundations and members of the community, he hopes to soon provide enough active shooter response kits for every officer at TPD.