WESSON — An anonymous donation brought the Wesson PoliceDepartment into the 21st century Monday.

The department received eight bulletproof vests to protectofficers on duty, said Lance Falvey, acting police chief.

“We didn’t have any vests, so this will help us out a lot,” saidFalvey. “This just brings an increased level of officer safety tothe department.”

The vests were distributed Monday to the two full-time and fivepart-time officers, who have never had bulletproof vests.

Falvey said the officers were “overwhelmed” by the donation, andglad to feel a little more protected.

“Simple words alone cannot express the deep gratitude we feelfor receiving this gift because this truly can be a gift of life,”he added.

Another recent improvement in the department was the addition ofbetter technology in its communications system.

Last month, Chief Frank Coker, who is recovering from a heartattack, bought the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department’s old radioequipment, which was a step up for the Wesson PoliceDepartment.

Officers now have more efficient ways of communicating withother authorities with the new radio system installed in thedepartment’s two vehicles last week. Portable radios were alsodistributed last week and will allow officers a saferenvironment.

“They have the ability to call for help when on a traffic stopor while investigating something,” Falvey explained.

In the past, officers have only had radio communication while intheir patrol cars, which could create a dangerous situation whenofficers are out of their vehicles, said Falvey.

“This is just another step forward to further increase officersafety and do our jobs in a more efficient manner for the town andthe residents,” said Falvey.

He explained how the new equipment will bring the departmentmore up to speed with the changing world of technology in lawenforcement.

“Police work is an ever-changing field and we have to changewith the times to do the best job possible,” said Falvey.

He hopes to keep the department heading in the right directionand fulfilling Coker’s vision to improve the department in any waypossible.

“There are more positive things yet to come,” said Falvey.