Deal brings new versatility to Jasper Police Department

The Jasper Police Department will showcase some new vehicles this week at Strassenfest.

For the past two months the department has been trying out a Yamaha Viking side-by-side and a Yamaha quad. The department is taking part in a special program through the local dealer, Obermeyer Honda Yamaha Suzuki. Through Obermeyer and Yamaha, the department can use the two vehicles for up to a year at no charge. At the end of that time they have the option to purchase them or return them to the company.

According to Jasper Assistant Chief Nathan Schmitt, the two vehicles have extended the capabilities of the department by giving them better off-road access. Although the two units will mainly see service at The Parklands, the Riverwalk, and the Sports Complex, Schmitt mentioned the call out about two years ago when a child went missing in Pike County.

“We were basically walking everywhere looking for this child,” he said.

With the new vehicles, the department would have had greater utility in the field.

The Viking can carry three people, has a cargo bed that will hold up to 650 lbs., and can tow 1,000 lbs. According to Sgt. Jeremy Lee, the Viking also allows greater access to people. “It is easier for someone to approach us in the Viking than our patrol cars,” he explained. “Plus, when we take it on the Riverwalk, I think runners and walkers feel safer with that presence.”

Keith Obermeyer, owner of Obermeyer Honda Yamaha Suzuki, the program is great for law enforcement, first responders, and fire departments. “It gives them a chance to try out the vehicles without the expense,” he said. “The side-by-side is very versatile for these departments. It’s an all-terrain vehicle that gives you access to off-road capabilities.”

The new vehicles will be seen around the Strassenfest this week; the side-by-side around the square and the quad on the Riverwalk.