Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Sheriff’s Deputies in Fillmore County now have access to some new protective gear thanks to the Rochester Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The local DAR group held its annual awards program on Saturday at the History Center of Olmsted County and presented Fillmore County Sheriff Tom Kaase and Deputy Jessy Betts with four Ballistic Shields. The equipment is designed to protect law officers from gunfire and other projectiles and often deployed when entering and clearing buildings during tactical operations.

During the presentation, Sheriff Kaase expressed his sincere gratitude for the DAR’s generosity and explained how equipping his department with the shields will enhance the safety of law enforcement officers and citizens.

The shields don't come cheap. A quick look at law enforcement equipment suppliers on the Internet show shields similar to those donated to the Sheriff's Department ranged in price from around $1,500 to over $2,000 each.

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