Resident trooper is making shopping list, thanks to grant

NORTH CANAAN — A $9,000 stimulus grant to the resident state trooper’s office will be used for a variety of needs.

Resident State Trooper Jim Promotico told The Journal all towns using the resident program received the same funding. He put together a shopping list to address unique needs here.

An all-terrain vehicle, preferably with a winch, will be purchased for numerous applications, such as rescue and other emergency operations and patrolling events in town.

“It will have a GPS system that can zero in on cell phone coordinates,� Promotico said. “A lot of fire departments are using ATVs now, but Canaan Fire Company doesn’t have one.�

Events such as Railroad Days, which covered a lot of ground in the center of town, are difficult for one trooper to patrol. Promotico prefers being out of his patrol car in such instances. He has used a bicycle, but finds the only advantage there is the vehicle’s speed.

“It makes you a little vulnerable, and it is difficult to carry all the equipment you may need. The ATV will give me maneuverability, speed and storage space. I can still be connecting with people on the street, but have that extra edge.�

Also on the list is a portable breathalyzer and a digital camera, to better document drunk drivers and crime scenes.

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