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Sheriff seeks $ for Lenco Bearcat Generation 3, calls current vehicle unsafe and obsolete
Summary
Sheriff asked the board for one-time funds to replace a 2005 Lenco Bearcat with a Generation 3 model, describing critical mechanical and safety shortcomings in the current vehicle and saying the vehicle is a "lifeline" for SWAT operations and regional mutual aid.
The Carroll County sheriff requested one-time funding on March 20 to buy a Lenco Bearcat Generation 3 rescue vehicle for the county's SWAT team, describing the replacement as an operational necessity.
The sheriff described the current 2005 vehicle's mechanical and communications limitations, noting it has been heavily used ("over 1,000 operations") and needs expensive maintenance. He said the older vehicle lacks modern acoustics, camera systems, thermal imaging and other features that make the newer model safer for both deputies and residents in high-risk entries. "It is the lifeline of protection for the team and provides the ability to get up front and close to a target location to handle any situation," the sheriff said.
The presentation included a video of a recent operation showing the vehicle breaching a front door and deploying a drone for first contact. The sheriff explained the regional context: many APC purchases were funded through post-9/11 UASI grants and that the county often provides mutual aid to neighboring jurisdictions. He estimated a 14-to-18-month lead time for a new build and said he would have to keep the current vehicle operational until then.
No final procurement decision or funding appropriation was taken March 20; commissioners asked clarifying questions and thanked the sheriff for the briefing. The sheriff said the department would return with specific procurement language and financing options.
