FPD to receive new shields, body cams

• FPD to receive new shields, body cams

Albert Gallegos Jr. and the Fairfield Police Department will receive more than what they asked for.

During the monthly city council meeting on May 14, Gallegos went to council aldermen to request two ballistic shields for his department. That’s when a Council member suggested that the city provide shields for the entire department.

With funds from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) still available, the council amended the measure to include the purchase of six shields, which were unanimously approved. Gallegos was shocked and pleasantly surprised.

“We’re very happy about this,” Gallegos said. “To be honest, we didn’t expect that. We asked for two, but I’m happy with the six. I’m happy with the decision. We have a great council that supports us.”

Gallegos is a 20-year veteran in law enforcement, and has spent the last 15 with FPD. He also said that getting more than they asked city council for was a “first.” “This is an awesome win for the department,” he said.

Getting more than they asked for wasn’t the only first for the FPD. The approval also marks the first time that the department will have access to ballistic shields.

“They’re very necessary,” Gallegos said. “Any type of call you respond to, you never know where it’s going to go. We’re in a new era of law enforcement. Things have changed. These days, you just never know. These shields will come in very handy and keep our officers safe.”

In addition to the ballistic shields, FPD also will receive new body cameras under ARPA funds. The cameras also come with a lifetime warranty, and will be replaced every three years.