Chicago Police Memorial Foundation raises more than $1M for new bulletproof vests

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation raised more than $1 million to buy new bulletproof vests for officers, as part of the "Get Behind the Vest" initiative.

New officers are given a free bulletproof vest when they join the force, but are responsible for buying replacements.

Manufacturers said the vests deteriorate over time due to use and recommend replacing them every five years. Each vest costs about $500.

"As the danger of gunfire to officers increases, it is more important than ever that we make sure all of the brave men and women on the force are kept as safe as possible from the devastating effects of one bullet," said Phil Cline, Chicago Police Memorial Foundation executive director.

Former Chicago Police Officer Jim Mullen made a $5,000 donation as part of the "Get Behind the Vest" campaign on Tuesday. He was paralyzed from the neck down after he was shot while on duty in 1996.

For more info or to donate, visit http://getbehindthevest.org