Body armor protects NY cop from knife attack

After fleeing on foot, the suspect attempted to stab the cop multiple times, but the officer was saved by his ballistic vest

By Police1 Staff

MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. — During a struggle after a foot pursuit, a burglary suspect attempted to stab an officer multiple times, but the body armor the officer was wearing protected his chest.

According to The Journal News, Ronald Clare Greenland, 53, engaged in a violent struggle with Officer David Sanchez after the officer attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle during his patrol at a car dealership.

Police stepped up patrols of car dealerships due to an increase in thefts. Sanchez tried to pull over the reportedly stolen vehicle when Greenland drove off, left the van and fled on foot, the publication reported.

After a short pursuit, Sanchez caught Greenland, who violently resisted arrest by hitting and attempting the stab the officer multiple times, police said.

Police said if Sanchez had not been wearing the armor, he would have been seriously injured.

“I commend Officer Sanchez for the courage and skill he demonstrated in apprehending this violent and dangerous suspect,” Police Commissioner George N. Longworth said. “He could have been seriously injured and we are thankful that did not occur.”