I have a nice low pro plate carrier as well as an old school Kevlar vest.
Body armor is indeed illegal in Conn as well as federally for felons. Join your local hardcore gun rights group if you disagree with such bad laws.
Lots of good reasons to have some body armor, even if you don't predict needing it in your EVERYDAY life. Might be old fashioned, but I think men should be ready to defend "whatever" in case something serious happens. Katrina anyone?
I've never seen respect or "love" in the hood stop a bullet. Nor military hubris.