PALMYRA, Mo. -The Marion County Sheriff’s Office took to social media Thursday to thank the United States Deputy Sheriffs’ Association for its generous donation of a mini rifle-rated ballistic shield.
“This valuable lifesaving equipment was obtained through the efforts of Deputy Cade Bergman, who secured the donation on behalf of our office,” the post said. “The shield will provide our deputies with an additional layer of protection during high-risk incidents, helping us better serve and protect the citizens of Marion County.”
The association supports law enforcement agencies throughout the country.
Marion County law enforcement officials say such partnerships ensure deputies have the tools they need to stay safe while responding to dangerous situations.
This type of equipment is desired because it’s compact and offers maximum mobility. The handheld armor panel can protect against high-velocity rifle rounds.
Standard-sized ballistic shields are large and cumbersome, and traditionally only rated for handgun threats.
The cost can range from $350 to $1,200.
They are designed in a way that they can be held with just one hand, with ergonomic forearm pads and trauma liners to absorb the blunt force trauma of a bullet impact, so it doesn’t break the user’s arm.