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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA sheriff in northwestern Indiana wants to buy a $360,000 armored vehicle.
Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. says the Bearcat would protect people during mass shootings, terrorist attacks and natural disasters. He said the sheriff’s department and county communities “face a number of significant threats.”
But the Post-Tribune of Gary reported that the request was removed from the agenda at a Board of Commissioners meeting Wednesday because of unanswered questions. Commissioner Jerry Tippy said he has many questions and concerns.
The sheriff said his department has an armored vehicle that was built in the 1970s. He said the Bearcat has remote spotlights, a 14-foot battering ram and a high-capacity winch.
He says it’s not intended to be an “‘offensive’ piece of equipment.”
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