Pubdate: Thu, 07 Aug 2003
Source: St. Petersburg Times (FL)
Copyright: 2003 St. Petersburg Times
Contact:  http://www.sptimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/419
Author: Donald F. Kelly
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1203/a11.html

DRIVERS ARE ON EGO TRIPS

Re: Top brass drive snazzy seized vehicles.

For the Tampa Police Department to claim that driving these cars saves
taxpayer money is misleading. As these cars are passed around from
driver to driver, who foots the bill when they break down? If there
happens to be an accident, who foots the bill? Or do you junk the
vehicle? Everyone knows it costs several times more to repair these
"luxury" automobiles than the common person's auto.

The drivers of these cars are on ego trips. It's like riding in a
limo. They "feel" important. I have just lost faith and respect for
the mayor of Tampa.

I see nothing wrong with using one of these cars for police undercover
work. The other cars should be sold and the funds used to "really"
save the taxpayers money. The cars should not be used for ego trips.

DONALD F. KELLY

St. Petersburg
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MAP posted-by: SHeath(DPFFlorida)