NCJ Number
140690
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 12 Dated: (December 1991) Pages: 52-55
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
A surveillance vehicle is a valuable law enforcement tool and can be used to combat drug dealing.
Abstract
Available surveillance vans are identified with a focus on significant improvements in quality and capability. Vans allow room for personnel and equipment and can be made almost invisible with the addition of exterior equipment, appropriate signage, and striping. Mid-level models are most popular: Chevrolet's G20 ChevyVan, Ford's E-250 Econoline, and the Dodge B250 MaxiWagon. Surveillance vehicle manufacturers use different methods for putting their products together, but essentially the process involves installing insulation, carpeting, and paneling in a bare van as well as a periscope in the roof and a console to hold monitoring equipment. Technology is making it possible for law enforcement agencies to perform a better job of surveillance. Manufacturers convert both new and used vans for surveillance work and also provide equipment for departments to convert their own vans. A surveillance unit can support an entire annual operation in addition to paying for itself. Details about the features of available vehicles are outlined.