Patrol cars added by sheriff

EPHRATA - Citizens will soon see new sheriff's patrol cars on Grant County roads. The sheriff's Office recently unveiled one of its new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles.

The new Chargers are painted gunmetal gray and sport new vinyl graphics. The Chargers are powered by 370-horsepower, 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engines

The new pursuit vehicles accelerate from 0-60 mph in just over six seconds. They have a top speed of more than 140 miles per hour

The most important feature the Chargers offer, according to Sheriff Tom Jones, is additional safety equipment to protect deputies. The Charger scored the highest in ergonomics and driver comfort and functionality, and was a Top Safety Pick in 2011 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

"In the past we would replace patrol cars after three years, and we're going to replace the Chargers every four years," Jones said. "With the lower maintenance costs, powertrain warranty and adding one year to the fleet rotation, we will save valuable taxpayer dollars."