L-R Chaplain Rich Lehmkuhl, Deputy Chuck Lowe, Deputy Ryan Huestis, Undersheriff Randy Linck, Investigator Brian Guilliams, Investigator Robbie Parker

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff’s deputies have new bullet-proof vests thanks to a generous donation.

Sheriff John Merchant says the United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association donated nine “ POINT BLANK” bullet proof vests for deputies.

Merchant says the retail value of the vests would be well over $6,000.

He says the vests will replace old, outdated vests that could compromise the safety of his deputies.

Merchant says his department has established a great partnership with the U.S. Deputy Sheriff’s Association over the past 9 years as they have provided other equipment as well as training on officer survival and defense tactics.