The Becker County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota has recently taken delivery of a new Lenco BearCat G3 rescue vehicle, a versatile and rugged addition to their emergency response toolkit.
“This changes everything … this thing is going to make a difference in the future — it’s not if, it’s when.” – Sheriff’s Sgt. Dan May
Designed for Challenging Conditions
The BearCat G3 boasts four-wheel drive and high ground clearance, enabling it to traverse rough terrain, plow through snow-blocked highways, and cross streets flooded with up to two feet of moving water. This makes it invaluable for rescuing stranded motorists and accessing areas other vehicles cannot reach.
“We want to be able to use it for any emergency that arises in Becker County.” – Deputy Adam Douglas
Safety and Tactical Features
Equipped with bullet resistant glass and half-inch-thick armored plating, the BearCat protects officers in dangerous situations. It allows responders to enter “hot zones” during active shooter incidents or civil unrest safely, rescue injured officers under fire, and remove civilians pinned down by gunfire.
Built on a Ford F-550 chassis, the 10-ton BearCat can reach highway speeds of 60 to 65 mph. Its roomy rear compartment accommodates a fully equipped 12-person SWAT team or can transport up to 20 civilians in emergencies. The vehicle is fitted with a hydraulic ram capable of breaching walls and deploying nonlethal munitions.
Additional features include:
- Nonlethal munitions deployment equipment attached to the hydraulic ram
- 360-degree exterior camera system monitored from inside the cab
- Inside-to-outside speaker system for communication with suspects
- Low-profile and scene lighting with a remote-controlled spotlight
- Four side doors for easier access
- Front and rear winches, rear towing hitch, and armored oil pan guard
- “Lusterless Black” finish with red and blue LED police lights
Community Impact
This new BearCat G3 significantly boosts Becker County’s emergency response capabilities—providing speed, protection, and versatility for a wide range of critical situations.
“This is going to be a good tool for the county.” – Deputy Douglas
Learn more about the BearCat and how it supports law enforcement agencies at lencoarmor.com, and read the original reporting of the BearCat acquisition here: https://www.dl-online.com/news/local/new-bearcat-rescue-vehicle-will-help-becker-county-sheriffs-office-in-multiple-ways