OPD

OAKLEY–The Oakley Police Department is changing to a different type duty vest. Chief Dustin Shellito explained the advantages in a post Monday on the Oakley PD Facebook page.

Shellito’s information is below.

“In case you missed the newspaper article, in the next few days the Police Department will be transitioning to an outer vest carrier instead of a concealed vest. The vest pictured does not have some of the attachments on it that we will have on when working. I would like to extend some explanation into this change.

First, and most important, this allows a majority of the weight that is currently on the duty belt to be distributed to the vest to reduce pain and discomfort in the lower back. Law enforcement, along with technology and tools used in today’s law enforcement, has changed drastically and officers are generally carrying approximately 25 pounds of extra weight while in full uniform. A majority of this weight is on a duty belt and creates pressure on the hips and lower back.

I think it is important to point out that this is not a specialized vest. We will be using the same ballistic panels as currently worn, but it will be in an outer shell instead of concealed under a shirt. The officer’s name and badge will be clearly visible on the front of the vest and Oakley PD will be visible from the back of the vest.

This will also reduce call out time when an officer is needed for back up assistance. They will be able to throw the vest on and be ready to go. In this profession, seconds can make a huge difference in the outcome of a situation.

Finally, during the summer months, an outer vest carrier is much cooler than a concealed vest. It allows for air to flow between the vest and body where a concealed vest there is little to no air flow between the vest and body under the shirt. Also, as an example, if an officer is working a major accident or crime scene in the heat of the day for an extended period of time, they will be able to come to the office afterward and simply take the vest off and cool down.

These will be the same officers that have served you in the past and this change will not affect how we do our jobs. We will maintain our current uniforms for parades, public functions, special occasions, etc. If you have any questions feel free to contact myself or if you see an officer out on patrol do not hesitate to ask them questions.

Thank you.”

Dustin R. Shellito, Oakley Chief of Police