(WEST FRANKFORT, IL) — West Frankfort Police will now feel much safer thanks to a generous donation from a former city resident that will be used to buy some much needed protective equipment. Former West Frankfort Mayor Bob Ellis presented the police department Wednesday with a donation of $9,000 on behalf of West Frankfort native Robert Burton Sr., who now lives out of state. Burton made the donation after learning about the recent gun violence in the city. WSIL-TV reports the money will be used to purchase more bullet resistant shields, helmets and stronger vests for officers. Police Chief Shawn Talutto says there was an urgency to get this equipment after the active shooter incident that took place in July. Harley Wilder exchanged gunfire with police after killing one man and injuring two others at a home on Madison Street. The police department was recently given approval by the city council to spend $2,000 to buy one shield.