WPD to get 12 new patrol cars, laptops

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — During their Tuesday night meeting, Wilmington City Council unanimously approved $31,488 to pay for 48 new laptop computers for the Wilmington Police Department. The laptops will replace those currently used in the police vehicles. According to City Manager Sterling Cheatham, the smaller sized computers will provide a more ergonomically efficient and safe workspace.

The money for the new technology will come from North Carolina drug tax funds.

Council also approved a resolution authorizing the purchase of twelve 2012 Dodge Charger Police patrol vehicles for $267,864. The replacement of these vehicles is funded in the adopted FY 12-13 Fleet Replacement Budget. Cheatham says the new computers will conform to the smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles.