Sacramento County Animal Control Officers Finally Get Bulletproof Vests

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Sacramento County animal control officers fought for protection for years, but it wasn't until one of their own died that the department got what they needed.

Before he was fatally shot on the job during an eviction, Officer Roy Marcum fought to get bulletproof vests for the staff at the shelter.

Last November, Joseph Corey allegedly fired one round through his door, hitting Marcum as he and two bank representatives stood outside the home.

"The call he was on is so routine," said Marcum's wife, Tina. "I don't think anybody would've thought that would happen."

Soon after Roy's death, the department pushed again for the vests. Right now, officers don't carry batons, tasers, or guns.

The ASPCA jumped in, paying for vests for the 15 animal control officers who now wear them out in the field.

But Roy's death changed much more. They now approach doors cautiously from the side instead of head-on, knowing someone with deadly intentions can be on the other side.

Roy's wife and mother are fighting to pass statewide legislation to provide bulletproof vests for all animal control officers. They plan to take it to a national level after that.

Corey is expected to go on trial this summer after pleading not guilty in April.