NCJ Number
197526
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Dated: April 2002 Pages: 100-105
Date Published
2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article details the modification of a Dodge cargo van for K-9 unit use.
Abstract
The authors explain that budgetary concerns are an issue to K-9 units that typically transport their canines in sport utility vehicles that cost approximately $40,000. Additionally, many expensive features of the sport utility vehicles are rarely used in police work, such as their V-8 engines and four-wheel drive. Since canine units provide valuable police services to law enforcement agencies, the authors sought to reduce the cost of transporting these units. The authors purchased a Dodge 1-ton cargo van for $18,000 and modified it for K-9 use. Simple and inexpensive modifications were made to the air conditioner and electrical system. These modifications totaled approximately $3,000. The authors also noted how the van was ideal for K-9 use because of its rear cage, interior cage, and storage compartments. Additionally, once the modifications were made, the van served as a mobile command post. The authors predict that as more budgetary constraints arise, innovations such as the modification of a van to be used in place of expensive sport utility vehicles will become more commonplace.