Pawtucket, RI – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representative Gabe Amo today joined Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien, Police Chief Tina Goncalves, and Pawtucket city officials at Slater Park to unveil new vehicles and equipment for the Pawtucket Police Department. Whitehouse secured a $335,000 earmark with Congressman Amo’s support to help the Pawtucket Police Department purchase two patrol vehicles, a transport van, and accompanying equipment.
“The brave men and women of the Pawtucket Police Department acted swiftly to protect their community in the horrible tragedy at the Lynch Arena,” said Whitehouse. “These new federally funded vehicles supported that emergency response, helping the Pawtucket Police do their jobs safely and effectively.”
“This investment in new vehicles for the Pawtucket Police Department is an investment in Rhode Islanders’ security and peace of mind,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “The brave men and women of the Pawtucket Police Department have responded to two of the worst tragedies to face our state in recent memory. I am grateful to Senator Whitehouse for bringing home this federal funding.”
The Pawtucket Police Department used the federal funding to purchase a standard patrol car for routine operations and a patrol rescue truck for high-risk incidents, as well as a transport rescue van to be deployed during mass casualty incidents and large-scale public events. The Department also purchased rifle-rated ballistic shields, breaching equipment, medical supplies, interoperable radio systems, and portable police band radios.
“This investment in public safety is a direct result of the strong partnership we have with our federal delegation, and I want to thank U.S. Senator Whitehouse for securing this funding with the support of U.S. Congressman Amo. Their advocacy ensures that our Police Department has the tools and resources it needs to respond effectively in critical moments. I also want to recognize and thank the dedicated men and women of the Pawtucket Police Department for their service, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe,” said Mayor Grebien.
The Pawtucket Police Department used the new transport rescue van to help transport officers from neighboring departments during the tragic February shooting at Dennis M. Lynch Arena.