Authorities said more than half of Plainfield Police officers are walking around with expired bulletproof vests.
Plainfield officials said expired bulletproof vests are being won by 12 of the 18 cops on the force.
"This vest itself actually expires in 2012 an officer is wearing it because wearing an expired vest is better than not wearing a vest at all," said Police Captain Mario Arriaga.
Police said after the 5-year warranty, vests lose tightness in the Velcro and shift their placement which expose vital areas.
"That shifting gives you more of a chance if you're shot that you're going to die," said Arriaga.
Police now have asked the Board of Finance for $10,000. Officers plan to use that money coupled with a federal grant of nearly $5,000 to buy 12 new vests like the ones used daily.
The cash will also go to 11 of ceramic bulletproof vests which are used to stop rifle rounds.
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"There are many incidents going on around the country and officers are being killed," said Arriaga.
Police said each vest costs nearly $1,000. Officers said with the $1,200 dollar stipend cops get to buy uniforms and equipment a majority of officers choose having a uniform over a new vest.
Officers said say the Board of Selectman have approved the funds and cops are now waiting for the approval from the Board of Finance who are set to meet next week.
