Friday, Mar. 11, 2005

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Police vest drive underway

By LEE WILLIAMS
lwilliams@TheCitizenNews.com

Patrolling the streets of the city is often no cakewalk for a police officer. Whether it’s racing to stop an armed robber or a drug dealer, police often are called to put themselves in harm’s way.

Peachtree City Auxiliary Police officials applaud the officers’ efforts, and they are calling on the help of citizens to show their appreciation.

The Auxiliary Police launched its 2005 Police Vest Fund Drive last month. Their goal is to raise $12,500 to purchase 25 bulletproof vests, and they are asking for citizen support.

Auxiliary Police Officer Capt. Gene Fochtman said citizens have supported their Vest Fund Drive in the past and he hopes that spirit will continue.

“The Peachtree City Police Department has never had to go to the city and ask them to buy a single bulletproof vest,” Fochtman said. “Actually, it’s a wonderful tradition. The businesses and citizens have always funded the purchase of every bulletproof vest that has been purchased by the city.”

The Vest Drive began in 1988, Auxiliary Police Officer Lt. Bryant Goss said.

The vests, which feature a heavy, metallic trauma plate and have about a four-year shelf life, are essential for officers. The vests protect officers from bullets, of course. But they also help protect an officer’s vital organs if involved in an accident.

Plain and simple, the vests saves lives, Fochtman indicated.

“Every penny that people contribute, 100 percent goes to the purchase of the vest,” he said. “There’s nothing taken off the top and no funds are diverted for any type of costs.”

The money will not be used for any other project, Fochtman added.

Some businesses might get donation mailers. Others might receive a phone call asking for donations. But despite how they are contacted, residents have a full-proof way of ensuring their donation ends up in the right hands.

Officials request that all checks be made out to the Peachtree City Auxiliary Police, 350 S. Highway 74, Peachtree City, GA 30269.

“If people are asked to send funds to any other address then they are not working with us,” Goss said. “All funds come directly to the police department. If anyone is asked to send money anywhere else, they should immediately call the police department at 770-487-8866.”

Donors can request the check be picked up or ask to take a check presentation picture with the volunteer police officers.

A uniformed Auxiliary Police officer will collect the check, if requested.

Those who contribute will receive an invite to a small social to express their appreciation for their support, Goss and Fochtman said.

Fochtman and Goss urge all citizens to support the cause.

“We have run this Vest Fund Drive about every 2 to 2 1/2 years and the community has always responded and done a wonderful job and we hope this continues,” Fochtman said. “We are very proud of what the community has done.”