The first of three 2016 Ford Explorers at the Great Bend Police Department is sporting the department’s new decals.
A few new vehicles are purchased every year.
After years of driving Ford Crown Victorias, Chevrolet Caprices and Dodge Chargers, the GBPD began switching to the sport utility vehicles in 2014, although some of the older cars are still in use.
For years, Great Bend ordered black police vehicles that came from the factory with a white vinyl wrap. Decals are added by Mark’s Signs in Great Bend. Now, the traditional black-and-whites are being replaced with all black vehicles, which prompted the updated logo.
The first SUV to sport the new decals is No. 88. It is driven by Cpl. Shane Becker, who patrols with K-9 Officer Lazer.
GBPD Chief Cliff Couch noted that the vehicles are still easily recognizable. “They’ve got our insignia on the front, back and both sides.” The light bar on top and push bar in front add to their visibility.