Old, faulty police cruisers are driving officers crazy

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Problems with police cruisers in New Haven, Connecticut, have city officials considering a plan to replace all police vehicles over the next few years.

The troubles range from holes in floorboards to malfunctioning gauges.

Once, a detective heading to a call took a turn and the steering wheel came off. No one was injured.

The police union filed a complaint with the state last September, saying the poor condition of the fleet of 44 cruisers was creating unsafe working conditions. The matter is in mediation.

A Board of Alders committee is expected to consider a proposal this month to increase police vehicle purchases to 24 a year.

New Haven appears to be an extreme example of police departments nationwide that are dealing with deteriorating vehicles and budget cuts.