THE NEWS DESK
The News Desk is a collection of news, notes and breaking items affecting the Fredericksburg community.
Culpeper town police trading Crown Vics in for more economical Tauruses
BY DONNIE JOHNSTON
The Culpeper Police Department is switching to new cruisers that not only offer a new look, but also are more economical and will provide officers more comfort.
“These new cars replace five old, worn out and expensive-to-maintain cars in our fleet,” said Chief Chris Jenkins. “These are the first police cars we have purchased in four budget cycles.”
Ford Taurus Police Interceptor models will replace the old Ford Crown Victorias and other models that the department has used for years.
The new vehicles, which will appear on the street this week, will be powered by V–6 engines, which are about 35 percent more economical than the old V–8 models. Some of the most fuel-efficient models are expected to get as much as 26 mpg.
“The new cars are designed and equipped for use as police cars,” said Public Information Officer Wally Bunker. “The seats conform to the duty belt. The steering wheel controls allow the officer to turn on emergency equipment.”
The new vehicles also are equipped with a number of updated safety features that help protect officers involved in side and rear collisions.
“This car is the patrol officer’s office,” said Capt. Ricky Pinksaw, who oversees the department’s patrol division. “It must be capable of carrying a great deal of equipment and have ample space in which to work.”
The new vehicles will be black with white lettering to provide greater visibility. The cruisers in operation now are white.
Donnie Johnston:
djohnston@freelancestar.com
