OAKLAND, Tenn. - New, heavier badges used by the Oakland police this year may have saved one officer's life.

Officer Joshua Smith's new badge was hit during gunfire exchange at a traffic stop on Thursday, keeping the bullet from striking his body.

Oakland Police Chief Keith Hogwood said the officer was wearing his bullet-proof vest, but it was the badge that stopped the bullet.

"The chief said the officer was complaining about it being too heavy," Oakland Mayor Bill Mullins said. "He said he wouldn't be complaining anymore."