Southlake's Police Department is getting 26 bullet-resistant shields.
The school resource officer, or SRO, program will receive the bullet-resistant shields after Southlake City Council members unanimously approved the purchase during the Feb. 7 meeting.
The shields cost $154,726 in total and will be purchased from Rules of Engagement Tactical LLC using the 2023 Bullet-Resistant Shield Grant approved by the Office of the Governor, according to city documents.
The Southlake Police Department has equipped their SROs with rifles, ballistic helmets, body armor and breaching equipment for entering secured locations, per the memorandum. By adding bullet-resistant shields, city documents stated the officers can provide more protection for their officers and the surrounding community.