Redlands Police Chief, Mark Garcia, confirmed that the Redlands Police Department acquired a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicle. Are there land mines in Redlands? Why are we militarizing the Redlands Police Department? Is this acquisition a fascist move in our city?
Chief Garcia confirmed that this MRAP vehicle acquisition was never discussed at Redlands City Council. Why would the Redlands PD want to acquire one of these MRAP vehicles that are designed for "asymmetric warfare."
In an email, Chief Garcia describes the MRAP vehicle as a "ballistic capable vehicle." The Redlands Police Department plans to use this vehicle as a "tactical vehicle" when needed. What does this all imply?
Can Redlands even afford to own this metal mine resistant ambush protectant beast? These MRAPs are reported to get 3 miles to the gallon. One site stated that MRAP tires alone cost $925 with tire liners in excess of $700.
The city should sell the MRAP vehicle for scrap metal and keep the cash.
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