Charleston police officers will now have more protection while they are on the job.
The City Council approved thousands of dollars in funding this week for the city to buy body armor and more body cameras for officers. Council authorized the city administration to enter into a contract totaling about $32,000 with Galls LLC to buy body armor for nine new police officers and to replace 31 sets of armor for existing officers. Members also voted to allow the city administration to enter into a contract with Motorola Solutions for about $652,000 over five years for 180 body cameras.
The mayor said officers share body cameras now, but the new purchase will make sure one is available for every officer.