County of Maui / Lois Whitney
By Staff Reports
(Wailuku) – The Maui County Police Department has acquired a Lenco “Bearcat” armored vehicle, Mayor Alan Arakawa and Police Chief Gary Yabuta today announced. The Bearcat is a state-of-the-art armored vehicle that will provide the Maui Police Department’s Special Response Team (SRT) with armored protection and tactical capabilities during high-risk operations.
The Bearcat provides superior armored protection with the ability to repel a.50-caliber projectile, as well as superior maneuverability and load-carrying capacity.
“This vehicle will help ensure the safety of our officers and the citizens of Maui County,” Mayor Arakawa said. “I would like to thank the County Council for their support in acquiring this equipment, and the officers of the SRT who put their lives on the line for the sake of our community each day.”
County of Maui / Lois Whitney
Police Chief Gary Yabuta noted that the vehicle is the latest of its kind in the state, and will provide a critical element of safety during operations that would have previously put officers in harm’s way.
“The men and women of the Maui Police Department are very appreciative of the Mayor, his staff and the Maui County Council for this assistance with the acquisition of the Bearcat Armored vehicle. This vehicle not only provides greater protection and tactical advantage for our officers, it makes Maui County a safer community.”