9,000 pounds of body armor, helmets, riot shields and tactical gear reach destination, Arizona officials say
EL PASO, TX (Border report) – A shipment of surplus police equipment donated by Arizona County sheriffs has reached freedom fighters in Ukraine, state officials said Friday.
The cargo included 874 body armor, 77 helmets, riot shields and various tactical clothing. A spokesperson for the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA) confirmed delivery by the Ukrainian relief group on Friday but could not provide further details as agency resources are tied has a ongoing fire emergency.
“Our team coordinated with county and tribal emergency managers to collect donations from law enforcement. The emergency response community is proud to support Ukraine,” DEMA Director of Emergency Management Allen Clark said earlier.
The 9,000 pounds of surplus equipment to help beleaguered Ukrainian troops repel the Russian invasion includes donations from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Tohono O’odham Nation, Tucson Police Department and of Phoenix and state sheriff’s offices.
The Ukraine Relief Group arranged for the materials to be flown to Poland and then trucked to Ukraine earlier this month.
“Ordinary citizens are risking their lives, fighting for their freedom, and deserve all the help we can give them,” Arizona Governor Doug Ducey tweeted.
