FRANKFORT, KY – Attorney General Russell Coleman has launched a $15 million grant program to equip local law enforcement agencies with much-needed body armor and other gear.
Earlier this year, Kentucky's General Assembly created the Body Armor Grant Program and provided funding for two years. These grants will support law enforcement and first responders in purchasing body armor, duty weapons, ammunition, electronic control devices and body-worn cameras.
Approximately 20% of Kentucky law enforcement officers have either expired body armor or none at all. Many of these professionals are left to purchase their own equipment.
The program will be administered by the Attorney General's Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Law enforcement agencies interested in applying for a grant, should visit the Attorney General's website. Click here to download the DCI seal.
"Every day, the courageous men and women of Kentucky law enforcement put their lives at risk to protect our families. They deserve our strong support and high-quality equipment to keep them safe in the line of duty," said Attorney General Coleman. "Together with our partners in the General Assembly, we are directing this critical equipment straight to those who need it most."
"The safety and well-being of our law enforcement officers is a paramount concern for the Kentucky General Assembly. I know our state's top law enforcement official, Attorney General Russell Coleman, shares this commitment," said Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee Chair Chris McDaniel (R-Ryland Heights). "Launching the Body Armor Grant Program is a significant step in providing our officers with the essential protection they need and deserve. This program and its funding exemplify our unwavering commitment to protecting those who protect and serve. I thank Attorney General Coleman and his office for leading the program's administration, and I encourage law enforcement agencies to make the most of this available funding. As Senate Budget Chair, I will continue to support our law enforcement community. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and partners, such as the Attorney General's Office, for their significant roles in this endeavor."
"I appreciate the Attorney General's stewardship of this program and his commitment to getting funds into communities across the state to ensure our first responders have adequate protection as they work to keep us safe. We owe these men and women our gratitude, but also our commitment to providing them the tools they need to successfully do their jobs," House Appropriations and Revenue Chair Jason Petrie said. "I look forward to seeing the impact this investment will have on public safety."
