- Irvine’s new $132K Cybertruck for its D.A.R.E. program is drawing mixed reactions from the public.
- Police Chief Michael Kent says the Tesla’s flashy presence could capture the attention of youngsters.
- Critics argue the EV’s hefty price tag is unnecessary for a D.A.R.E. vehicle, sparking taxpayer outrage.
There was no doubt that this day would come. A Tesla Cybertruck is now a part of a police fleet. While it’s still unclear how much “real” police work this futuristic truck will actually do, one thing is certain: this truck is already grabbing plenty of attention. As such, it’s going to be part of the department’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) initiative.
This particular Cybertruck belongs to the Irvine, California police department, and it’s not just any off-the-assembly-line model. It comes fully fitted with custom police graphics, emergency lights, and a bespoke interior designed specifically for its new role. Built in part by Unplugged Performance and Whelen Engineering, this truck will certainly stand out. That’s really the main goal for a DARE program vehicle, says Police Chief Michael Kent.
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In an interview with ABC 7, Chief Kent explained the thinking behind the choice, saying, “Whether it’s a lowered or raised truck, a PT Cruiser or a Cybertruck, these vehicles draw a crowd with custom graphics and features that pique the curiosity of car enthusiasts of all ages. I’m very proud to say that we’re the first police department in the country to have this in its fleet.”
That comment actually highlights the main concern so many citizens seem to have with this Tesla. It cost more than $132,000. That includes the price of the truck itself and some $21,000 in modifications to set it up for DARE duty. If a PT Cruiser would have drawn a crowd as Kent proposes, why not save taxpayers around $122,000 by going with the Chrysler?
The public response has been divided. One comment on the Irvine PD’s Instagram video said, “Congrats on making yourself the laughing stock of the country. Can only imagine what people that live here think of this waste of money coming out of their pockets”.
Another echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is what we mean by defund the police. This is just wasteful, they are rubbing it in out [sic] faces now”.
On the flip side, other citizens praised the move saying things like “You’re getting flack for it, but I think it looks very menacing! Great video! If it can turn a kid from bad to good, it is worth it!!” Chief Kent echoed that sentiment concerning its cost. “It’s those conversations that cannot be quantified because they’re truly priceless,” he said regarding how it might capture the attention of youngsters.
Regardless of personal feelings one can no doubt hope that a huge investment like this does indeed pay off now that the money is spent.
