KPD acquires new police trucks to enhance service
Published on April 03, 2024
LĪHUʻE – Officers of the Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) are acquiring 10 police-rated pickup trucks to enhance their response to calls.
The Silverado PPV is Chevrolet’s first police pickup truck, designed with advanced safety features and performance in mind. Capable of hauling up to 9,300 pounds or responding to calls for service, the versatility of the truck makes it suitable for multiple roles in law enforcement operations.
The production of the department's current police cruiser, the Ford Police Interceptor Unit, was halted due to supply chain constraints caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Seeking other options to improve the efficiency of daily patrol operations in lieu of waiting for production to resume, KPD decided to acquire the Chevrolet Silverado. With 10 new police trucks hitting the road this week, KPD is the first police department in the state of Hawai‘i to acquire the Chevrolet Silverado PPV in an effort to improve patrol operations safety and accessibility.
“Kaua‘i spans more than 550 square miles, which mostly consists of unpopulated rural landscape,” said Chief of Police Todd Raybuck. “One of the advantages of enhancing our fleet with vehicles that are more capable off pavement is that it enables officers to reach remote areas swiftly and provide additional support during harsh weather conditions. These trucks make it easier to get help where it is needed, especially in urgent scenarios where time is a critical factor.”
The truck is outfitted with cutting edge, specialized police equipment and represents a significant jump in capabilities over previous patrol platforms. The new vehicle ensures that officers have the right resources at the ready for any kind of terrain they may encounter.
“The best part of being a police officer is that you never know what you are going to encounter each day. It’s unpredictable and exciting. These trucks allow us to be better equipped for those unexpected calls,” shared Officer Arnold Cayabyab.
Want to make a difference in the community? Recruitment for the force is ongoing. The salary for a police officer ranges from approximately $72,000 to over $118,000 and includes a robust benefit package. Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license and a minimum age of 20 years. Applicants should not have any misdemeanor, felony or domestic violence convictions. Find out more by visiting the County of Kaua‘i’s employment website, www.kauai.gov/jobs.
“These trucks are another resource that allow the men and women of the Kaua‘i Police Department to continue to protect and serve the people of Kaua‘i. With a deep sense of empathy and a steadfast commitment, we are honored to stand by our community and offer our unwavering support when it matters the most,” said Police Chief Raybuck.
Check out how the trucks support KPD’s team of dispatchers and officers in responding to calls for service: https://youtu.be/lvWNihC3YOw?feature=shared.
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