By Timberly Ferree NEW CAR: Jasonville Patrol Officer Ryan Van Horn gets ready for a cruise in his new patrol car, a 2008 Dodge Charger. The vehicle is one of three new additions to the department. The JPD now has two of the semi-unmarked Chargers. [Order this photo]

"We're very proud. It's something we've been shooting for," explained Jasonville Police Chief Rick Van Horn.

The department has amped up its street coverage with two black, semi-unmarked 2008 Dodge Chargers and a 2005 Ford Explorer which were purchased in August, he noted.

"It's the first time we've ever had what we call take-home vehicles," Van Horn said. "We had them (new vehicles) on the streets for about two weeks now."

The additional vehicles have already made a difference.

"They (full-time officers) take them home and get called out from there. It's really cut down on response time," he said.

But it's also increased street patrol.

"The more vehicles you get out there the more it cuts down on crime and traffic offenses. It's been a big help so far," the police chief said.

In the past, the department has sometimes struggled with a shortage of patrol vehicles.

"A good example is our homecoming. If we made an arrest we would have to take a car out of town," he explained. "If we did incarcerate someone we would be down to one car on patrol. Sometimes the reserve car wasn't going and we would have to call for assistance."

Jasonville Mayor Roy Terrell agreed.

"I think they are serving the purpose we got them for. Our homecoming weekend was good example," he said, noting the need for extra patrol if an arrest and transport is made.

Full-time officers also need take-home vehicles for insurance purposes, Van Horn noted.

"A lot of the problem was if we used our own vehicle as a police car then we were liable," he said. "So, basically it could be counted against us. That was a factor. We were actually working for the police department and getting called out but we were on our own when it came to insurance."

Although the need for additional vehicles was obvious, Van Horn was unsure if the purchase was feasible.

"I was skeptical with budget crunches," he said. "But the mayor and the city council were really good to work with and made it possible."

Several donations were also made by local residents and businesses.

"The equipment was funded through donations and fundraisers ... the city will be out very little on equipment," he added.

The 2005 Ford Explorer was a direct purchase by the city and the 2008 Chargers are being leased and will be owned in four years.

Sgt. Brian Pilant and Patrol Officer Ryan Van Horn were issued the 2008 Dodge Chargers and Assistant Chief Jim Gadberry was issued the 2005 Ford Explorer.

Canine Officer Danny Keller has the 2004 Ford Explorer and Chief Van Horn has the 2007 silver Crown Victoria.