Keeping Florida Safe in a Challenger “Ghost” |
 
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Posted on January 27, 2010
A new Dodge has joined the force. The Broward County Sheriff’s Department in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, already well stocked with more than 200 Dodge Chargers, has now added several high-powered Challengers to its law enforcement fleet. For deputy Tom Sheridan, the choice was a no-brainer for the fleet’s Aggressive Driving Enforcement unit: “They’re a full-sized, rear-wheel drive V8-powered car that’s larger than the competition — the Chevy Camaro and the Ford Mustang — but they share a lot features and performance of the Charger,” he says. Among the features that this car does not have in common with everyday Challengers: front and rear radar systems, a higher top speed, and a Mopar Cold Air Intake system for improved performance and gas mileage.
For Deputy Sheridan, his love affair with Dodges goes back to 2006. “The Broward Sheriffs Office acquired 12 of the new Hemi Powered Chargers and I was issued one,” he says. “I just loved the performance and handling.” But he was even more thrilled when he was assigned the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T. “The Dodge Challenger naturally draws attention when it’s out on the road, no matter what,” Sheridan explains. “Now imagine that same car with police graphics, lights, and siren, and you get an instant double-take from the public. The car is a conversation piece no matter where it goes. I can’t tell you how many times a motorist will pull up alongside me while I’m operating the police car and give me a thumbs up — or my favorite: ‘Hey, that’s got a Hemi!’” Of course, that’s when they can see it — Sheridan’s ride is bit tougher to spot. Nicknamed “The Ghost” because of its stealthy appearance and hidden light and siren package, Sheridan’s Challenger is undoubtedly not a welcome sight for drivers pulled over by his Aggressive Driving Unit. But it would be difficult to find a car better suited to the task.
Deputy Sheridan was so impressed with the Dodge fleet’s on-the-job performance that he went out and bought himself a new red 2009 Challenger SRT (shown below) last April — a car that tends to get its own fair share of stares and second looks. He says he enjoys bringing the squad’s new Challengers to show off to the public at local auto shows, where deputies can then field questions on vehicle specifics along with traffic laws. His agency is lucky enough to have some of the most dedicated men and women in law enforcement, he boasts, and they’re eager to learn about local traffic problems that need attention. “And our vehicles reflect that professionalism,” he says. That makes us at Dodge proud, too.
Jan 27, 2010 @ 19:27:59
Lovin it!!!!! Please Support Law Enforcement Everybody…Sure I’ve had My share of Speeding Tickets But Its The LEOs Job, to keep Us Safe.
Jan 27, 2010 @ 20:57:59
Do they need more policemen in Florida? Sign me up. Just think, getting paid to chase people in a Challenger. What better perk can there be.
Jan 27, 2010 @ 21:39:14
Now that is sharp I have a 2009 dodge Challenger and a 94 dodge viper they are great I love them both. I am glad to get the challenger out on the street protecting us!
Jan 30, 2010 @ 17:08:26
Hello all!!!!
The Chally looks good in police colors….. Florida police always have nice looking police cars….
Tazallen
Feb 11, 2010 @ 14:51:53
That’s a great looking car Tom, but you did not mention what dealer takes the best care of your work car and the love of your life,that SRT 8 Challenger that sits in your garage wrapped in a blanket and only comes out on weekends !!!
You know Arrigo Dodge proudly services all your cars .
Feb 11, 2010 @ 15:25:50
That’s right, Arrigo Dodge Sawgrass in Tamarac Fla. Just ask for Tommy in service!
Feb 11, 2010 @ 16:03:51
Sorry for not giving Arrigo Dodge their props. I have nothing but praise and compliments for Service Manager Pete Martino and his staff at Arrigo Dodge Sawgrass in Tamarac , Florida. You guys have always went above and beyond in treating me with great service and professionalism. I would trust my car with no other. Thanks again for all your help and support.
Aug 16, 2010 @ 23:59:42
How Bitchin is this, a Challenger as a police machine. They should get a Fushia one and do it up with all the light and signs. NO ONE would be on the look out for a PINK cop car. You look into your rear veiw mirror and here’s this pink Challenger with lights going and your thinking what the f@*k just happened to me. If it was me I’d ask to look the thing over while the cop was writing the ticket, then shake my head LMAO and sign my name. Tell the cop have a great day, and wonder what the nice guys going to think. Tracy
Aug 17, 2010 @ 00:00:44
Thats next guy going to think.
Mar 03, 2011 @ 20:54:01
These cops are flat out idiots and have nothing better to do but sit on their asses and giving honest tax payers ticket, who ironically pay for their sallary! especially Tom Sheridan!