Red Bay council implements new police body armor policy

At a called meeting on Wednesday, the Red Bay City Council approved a new body armor policy for the Red Bay Police Department that outlines the use, inspection and maintenance of body armor worn by officers for protection.

According to Red Bay Police Chief Janna Jackson, the passage of the policy was a federal requirement this year in order to participate in a partnership program where they could receive a grant match for the purchase of new bullet resistant vests.

“It has been over five years since our police department has received new vests,” Jackson said.

“We wear these daily and in all different weather conditions so they receive a lot of wear and tear, so we want to make sure we have new vests that will be the most effective.”

Red Bay Mayor Bobby Forsythe said the grant would require a 50 percent match from the city of $2,600.

“I understand these vests they have now have not been changed out in a long time, so we would be glad to pass this policy and accept the funding match to get our officers new vests,” Forsythe said during the meeting.

Jackson said the vests are vital to each of her officers in their day-to-day routines.

“These vests could save one of our officers lives,” Jackson said.

“I appreciate the cooperation of the city council and the mayor in getting this policy passed and for agreeing to the funding match. I am thankful that they are always concerned about the safety of our officers.”