NORWICH – Chenango County probation officers searching homes for illegal drugs and weapons should be protected with bullet-proof vests, a group of lawmakers say.

Members of the Safety & Rules Committee meeting last week authorized Probation Director Laureen Clarke to partner with the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office in the purchase of four vests at a total cost of $2,008. The committee also gave Acting Sheriff Ernest Cutting the go-ahead to apply for a New York State grant that is available for purchasing the units.

The Sheriff’s Office regularly replaces deputies’ vests when the warranties expire. He said daily use and body sweat breaks down the fibers.

When conducting a drug raid at a City of Norwich residence earlier this year, in conjunction with the Norwich Police, a probation officer was advised to wear a vest. Clarke said that had never happened before.

“I’m thinking of their benefit. Maybe it’s time to offer them this added protection,” she said.

Clarke said she expected more drug offenders in the area with the relaxing of the state’s Rockefeller Drug Laws. This year’s state budget enacted reforms to the Rockefeller Drug Laws aimed at reducing state spending on the incarceration of non-violent drug offenders. Most of the convicted drug offenders will now end up in local correctional facilities.