The Irving Police Department, which is located in California, recently unveiled the “first police Tesla Cybertruck in the nation.” The Tesla Cybertruck is expected to be used for educational purposes in the community.
In a Tuesday post on X, formerly Twitter, the Irvine Police Department wrote, “We are excited to unveil what we believe is the first police Tesla Cybertruck in the nation. The truck will support our Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program and community outreach efforts.”
The Irvine Police Department noted that while the “fully equipped vehicle” will not be used as a patrol car, the police Cybertruck will be able to “respond to emergencies and assist the community when needed.”
During the Cybertruck’s unveiling ceremony, Irving Police Chief Michael Kent said, “I’m very proud to say that we’re the first police department in the country to have this in its fleet.” Kent added, “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.”
KABC reported that DARE Officer Alex Mendoza will be the primary driver of the new police Cybertruck. Commenting on the police vehicle’s custom wrap, Mendoza said, “Our team that put everything together did an amazing job. It just looks very kind of futuristic and kind of out of this world.”
Pictures of the Irving Police Department’s Cybertruck have been shared on X.
The Irving Police Department is planning to use the new Cybertruck for community events and programs at local schools.
“I can’t wait for their reaction when I drive up with the Cybertruck,” Mendoza stated. “I cover nine schools and at nine schools the kids are super, super amped up. There’s even an incentive for behavior — so as long as they’re showing empathy, and compassion, they’re doing the right thing, they’re going to be able to have lunch with me and try Cybertruck and check it out.”
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According to KABC, the Irving Police Department’s Cybertruck cost a total of roughly $153,000 between the cost of the truck and the installation of special equipment for the police department. Despite the high cost of the new vehicle, police officials believe the expense will be worth it to actively engage with children in the community. Kent noted, “It’s those conversations that cannot be quantified because they’re truly priceless.”
A video of the police Cybertruck demonstrates how the new vehicle could function in various situations.
