CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are getting new body armor to better protect officers from high-caliber weapons.
Charlotte City Council voted unanimously Monday to spend more than $600,000 on stronger, steel-plated helmets and body armor.
The vote included plans to buy 680 Level III vests that can stop a rifle or a shotgun round. Police officers currently wear vest that can protect them only from handgun bullets.
In addition, the department plans to buy 1,315 Level III helmets that can be used for protection during riots or civil emergencies.
The vests will be stored in every patrol car so they are in arm's reach of every officer.
