Local couple raises money to outfit law enforcement with Shield 616 gear

Bob and Doloterra Barber, a couple from Teller County hid among the crowd on Saturday, giving credit to everyone around them, but they’re the reason, 14 law enforcement officers are getting rifle-rated armor.

Mrs. Barber said, “we had to do something about it.”

Back in February, they started raising money to protect the men and women who protect them on a daily basis.

Mr. Barber explained, “this is one way we can show we want to protect them as well, by getting them the equipment they need.”

Four months and just over $17,000 dollars later, they did. A total of 14 Shield 616 sets, four for Cripple Creek Police Officers and 10 for the Teller County Sheriff’s office were given to their respective officers.

Sgt. Jake Markus said, “pretty much what I have on right now underneath my shirt is the only protection we had before.”

He continues, pointing to his new set of gear, “this gives us a lot more comfort.”

Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell said this top-of-the-line gear is what his men and women need based on what they’re facing today.

“Things are changing and they have to have the protection for the level of force being used against them,” Mikesell said.

Now the Barbers and the community who helped them raise the money are hoping others will consider doing the same thing.

The rifle rated armor from Shield 616 typically costs upwards of $1500, more than most departments can afford for each of their employees.

Each set is equipped with a high-caliber vest, ballistic helmet, and trauma kits, all at no cost to the department or the person receiving the gear.