News

Sheriff uses drug dealer money to buy mobile command bus

By Lightning Reports, Published: February 28, 2021

Since taking office in December 2018, Henderson County Sheriff Lowell Griffin has diligently searched for a vehicle that could be used as a mobile command vehicle .

The search led to the state of Colorado where he found a 44-foot Newmar RV bus originally designed as a mobile office. After a thorough check of the mechanics and safety record of the vehicle, it was purchased and driven to North Carolina. By using asset forfeiture funds from drug dealers, 100 percent of the purchase price and equipping of the command bus came at no expense to Henderson County taxpayers.

The vehicle is equipped with state-of-the-art computer and radio systems. It has an on-board weather station and satellite communications when cellular service is unavailable. With today’s criminal activities, unpredictable disasters and other unforeseen circumstances, the mobile command center vehicle will serve many vital roles. It will act as a central hub for communications and a unified multi agency response. Also, should 911 communications ever go down due to a natural disaster or unexpected problem, the mobile command vehicle can serve as a temporary emergency mobile communications center. The mobile command bus is designed to be used by law enforcement, fire, rescue and emergency services when critical incidents arise and a unified response is needed not only in Henderson County but throughout Western North Carolina.