Some Jeffco residents may have noticed something new patrolling the streets of Jefferson County. About 11 vehicles from the sheriff's patrol fleet have been given a new look: a traditional, black and white style paint job with heavy block lettering. These 11 cars are currently in service alongside the department's white, striped patrol cars. We will continue to activate these new-look patrol cars as older vehicles are transitioned out of the fleet, until all patrol vehicles match our "new" old look.

A Blend of Tradition and Technology.

The decision to change the look of the vehicles hinged on two factors: tradition and visibility. Ironically, this traditional style is complemented with some of the best and newest technologies available in law enforcement, including laptop computers that provide deputies with access to CBI databases and the Sheriff's Office call dispatch system. The computers also feature global positioning systems (GPS), enabling our dispatch center to see the location of every patrol car, and enabling deputies to get a map and directions to any location. Each car also carries an 800 MHz radio, allowing deputies to talk with any other emergency services agency in the state, providing complete inter-operability during a major disaster. Finally, our fleet services unit tops each car off with a LED light bar that is highly visible and uses less power.

Visibility for Better Crime Prevention.

More important than the traditional feel, however, is the cars' increased visibility. The black and white cars aid in crime prevention * easily identifiable as law enforcement vehicles and thus a stronger force in deterring crime. Additionally, their increased visibility aids in traffic enforcement by being a higher-profile presence on the roadways.

We realize that some citizens may have been confused by the two different styles of cars. Both styles will be in use for the time being. But thanks to the hard work of our fleet crew, you will be seeing more and more of these "black and whites" as they are put into service throughout the county.