New York cab drivers: not just tough, bulletproof

The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers made news in December 2010 by providing bulletproof vests (most donated by retired police officers) to livery cab drivers called to crime-ridden neighborhoods in New York City. This bold move followed several high-profile attacks on cab drivers. Now Security USA, New York, N.Y., a security consulting firm, has donated a dozen more protective vests to the Federation. “We want to continue this,” says Security USA spokesperson Clark Pena, “and will do our best to get as many drivers fitted as we can.” The company has contacted other security firms to help with the donations and has established a project to collect funds to purchase additional vests for drivers. The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission, which regulates livery cabs, declined comment.