Roma, Texas— U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured $13,510 in federal funds to be used for the purchase of body armor vests for law enforcement officers in Starr County. The funds will be awarded to the cities of Escobares and Roma.

“It is our moral obligation to do everything in our power to minimize the number of law enforcement officer line-of-duty deaths. The Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership allows us to look out for our men and women in law enforcement by providing them with “uniquely fitted” bulletproof vests that are essential for their safety while protecting our communities,” said Congressman Cuellar. “These vests conform to the individual officer and provide the best possible fit and coverage, resulting in enhanced efficiency and safety. It is my goal to ensure that our officers have access to the best equipment available to them, this is crucial while they are in the line-of-duty.”

The breakdown of the funding within the county is as follows:

• Roma                           $10,945.00
• Escobares                    $2,565.00

The money will be used to reimburse the cities for up to 50% of the cost of body armor vests purchased for law enforcement officers.

The funds were awarded through the FY 2021 Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) Program from the Depart of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance.

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