FRANKFORT, Ky. — Attorney General Russell Coleman, R-Ky., has launched a new $15 million grant program to help local law enforcement agencies obtain new body armor and additional gear. 

What You Need To Know

  • A new $15 million grant program will help Kentucky law enforcement agencies get new body armor 

  • It will support police and first responders in purchasing new body armor, as well as duty weapons, ammunition and body-worn cameras 

  • Approximately 20% of Kentucky law enforcement officers have expired body armor or none at all, said Attorney General Russell Coleman, R-Ky. 

  • The attorney general's Department of Criminal Investigations will administer the program

Kentucky's General Assembly launched the Body Armor Grant program earlier this year and provided funding for two years. The attorney general's office said the grants will support police and first responders in not only purchasing body armor but duty weapons, ammunition, electronic control devices and body-worn cameras.

Approximately 20% of Kentucky law enforcement officers have expired body armor or none at all, and many are left to purchase their own equipment, Coleman's office added.

"Every day, the courageous men and women of Kentucky law enforcement put their lives at risk to protect our families," Coleman said. "They deserve strong support and high-quality equipment to keep them safe in the line of duty. Together, with our partners in the General Assembly, we are directing this critical equipment straight to those who need it most."

The attorney general's Department of Criminal Investigations will administer the program.

"The safety and well-being of our law enforcement officers is a paramount concern for the Kentucky General Assembly," said Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee Chair Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights. "Launching the Body Armor Grant Program is a significant step in providing our officers with the essential protection they need and deserve. The program and its funding exemplify our unwavering commitment to protecting those who protect and serve."

"I appreciate the Attorney General's stewardship of this program and his commitment to getting funds into communities across the state to ensure our first responders have adequate protection as they work to keep us safe," said House Appropriations and Revenue Chair Jason Petrie, R-Elkton. "We owe these men and women our gratitude, but also our commitment to providing them the tools they need to successfully do their jobs."

Agencies interested in applying for a grant should visit the attorney general's website.

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