Top Ten Gift Ideas for Police Officers

Maybe it's your husband, your brother or your best friend. Regardless of your connection, you've no doubt noticed that law enforcement officers are a bit different than the rest of us. For most, their jobs are their lives, their identity and their pride. They live to serve. It should come as no surprise, then, that the most appreciated holiday gifts for police officers are work-related.

These gifts won't just make your patrolman or your deputy happy. These gifts are tools that will be used day in and day out as they serve and protect. And they'll think of you each time they pull out the gift.

1. A bulletproof vest. Many jurisdictions still do not provide what should be a standard issue. This can be costly, with prices starting at about $400 and going up to over $1,000. This is one of those rare gifts that can save a life. 

2. A trunk organizer. These are like brief cases for the trunk and officers on patrol love them. Look for one that is portable, so the organizer can be put into the trunk at the beginning of a shift and taken out at the end. Trunk organizers are usually layered and have room for a first aid kit and larger items, while having pockets for smaller items.

3. The Shield. I know a lot of police officers and all of them love the FX television show starring Michael Chiklis. Four seasons are available on DVD at a cost of about $50 a set. The series is a gripping police drama, but it tends to be very graphic and violent. It's not perfect gift">the perfect gift for everyone, but most cops will be so happy that they'll immediately sneak it down to the den and start watching before the rest of the gifts is open.

4. A rain coat. Policemen just don't look cool using an umbrella. Many departments issue ponchos, which aren't much better. I recommend a good rain coat, specifically the Gall's Rainsuit Jacket. This jacket has a hood that disappears in a collar zipper. The best thing, though, are the side vents which make it easy to get to your utility belt. Regardless of your choice, make sure it's a bright color or has reflective stripes at the least.