Fire truck donated to county to process evidence
Thursday, May 08, 2008
HAMILTON — Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones and Fairfield Fire Chief Don Bennett have the "recycling" spirit in the form of a big red truck.
A fire/rescue unit that is past its prime for use in emergency situations has been donated by the city of Fairfield to sheriff's office, where it will be repurposed as a evidence vehicle.
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Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones and Fairfield Fire Chief Don Bennett stand by a rescue squad being donated by the Fairfield Fire Department to the Sheriff's office to be converted into an evidence collection vehicle. 
Get latest headlines via RSS feedsJones and Bennett looked over the vehicle Tuesday, May 6, after the official exchange of keys. The two said it was a win-win deal for both agencies.
"We have a van right now that is not big enough," Jones said. "There are more calls for evidence tech work and more equipment we have to take to the scene. Technology is always changing. This vehicle — with all the compartments — will make it much easier and efficient."
Jones added there are times when deputies have to make trips back and forth to the department to get all the equipment needed.
"Now we will be able to have everything in one vehicle, ready to go," he said.
Bennett said the squad is nearly 10 years old and already has been replaced.
"It may not be good for making emergency runs anymore, but it can be used for something else," Bennett said.
He added at auction, the vehicle may have a value of about $1,000.
After hearing the sheriff's office was looking for similar vehicle to rehab, Bennett said it seemed like a good decision to donate it.
"If we sold, I would probably see it being used by a carpet cleaning company," Bennett said.
Now the vehicle paid for with taxpayer dollars will continue to be of use to the general public.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2168 or lpack@coxohio.com.
