Nonprofit Helps Provide Ballistic Shields To Every Agency In Rogers County

Every single agency in Rogers County now has a ballistic shield thanks to a generous donor.

The shields protect from rifle rounds and could save lives as officers face dangerous situations.

Ryan Sheehan unloaded some very important packages from his trunk.

He took two ballistic shields into the Verdigris Police Department, unwrapped them, and handed them off to officers who were eager to protect.

“It's another tool for our arsenal," said Verdigris Chief Jack Shackelford.

Chief Jack Shackelford said the two ballistic shields will be put to use in the field to protect both officers and citizens.

“That thought is in the back of your mind that a rifle could be there, and somebody could be pointing that rifle at me," Shackelford said. 

The shields are about 20 pounds and provide protection from rifle rounds, giving officers an extra line of defense in scary situations.

“If it’s too big, you can't really maneuver yourself where you want.”

“Our goal today is to equip every agency in Rogers County with at least one shield," said Ryan Sheehan, the Director of Stand First Foundation. "Some will receive multiple shields.”

Sheehan is the executive director of the Stand1st Foundation, a nonprofit started by Rogers County Sheriff Scott Walton to provide officers with equipment and training.

The 16 donated shields range from $1000 to $3000, and a News on 6 viewer who saw our story about the nonprofit provided the money to buy them.

Related: Rogers County Sheriff Supplies Law Enforcement With Ballistic Shields Through Nonprofit

“Most of these, you could hit multiple rounds, and it would be no problem at all," Sheehan said. 

The Inola police department also received two shields for its growing community.

“It'll be useful if we make entry in a house, especially if there is a lot of narcotics inside or somebody with felony warrants," said Inola Police Cpt. Ryan Ragan.

Sheehan believes Rogers County is the first in the state and possibly the nation to equip every agency with a shield like this, and the goal is to one day get a shield for every officer.

“This will put some out in the field, and that's a big plus for us and the citizens," said Shackelford. 

To donate, you can visit the Stand1st website here.