Crime Prevention Fund Gets $20K Donation

An anonymous donor has helped the Edina Police Department's SWAT team secure new tactical ballistic vests, thanks to a $20,000 donation.

The new equipment will be used to replace the SWAT team's current vests—coincidentally funded by the same donor 7 years ago—as their manufacturer's warranties expired in 2009.

"It's important that the officers have peace of mind and protection, that they know that the vests are going to work,” said Lt. Jeff Elasky, who serves as commander of the SWAT team. "The vests today offer an even higher level of protection and are lighter, too."

Each of the new tactical ballistic vests costs about $2,400, according to the city. The old vests are being donated to an organization that provides used equipment to police departments in need of ballistic protection. They might be out of warranty, but the city said the vests will still effectively protect those who don't have one.