OAKLAND, Maine
(NEWS CENTER) -- Police in Oakland have new bulletproof vests and helmets thanks to members of their community.
"Heavier weapons are being used against police officers, we're starting to come across situations with people using rifles" said Sergeant Tracey Frost of the Oakland Police Department.
The Oakland Police Department recently found itself in need of new safety equipment but couldn't fit it into their budget.
So, members of the community bought it for them.
"They purchased us four heavy duty bulletproof vests and helmets to go in our cruisers to help officers that were out on the street" said Sergeant Frost.
Sergeant Frost said the vests are an essential item for officers, "These vests, are much heavier, they're much thicker they're higher rated and they're designed to help officers that are out in an extremely dangerous situation, survive that situation".
David Libby and two local business-owners purchased those vests and helmets.
He said after the deadly shootings in Oakland he wanted to do something to help those who protect and serve.
"Their lives are at risk everyday, it could happen tomorrow morning, it could happen tomorrow night...Their lives are on the line everyday, everyday" said Libby.
And although he couldn't see himself in uniform one day, he knows in back of his mind that they are just a phone call away.
"I wouldn't want that job. But they're there for us, if I need them they would be there for me" said Libby.
Sergeant Frost said the vests and helmets cost about $3500.
