ACLU to Bergen Sheriff: Withdraw Request for Armored Vehicles

Written By Caitlin Brown

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey has formally asked Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino to withdraw his request to acquire two armored military vehicles for the county.

In a letter, the organization said the armored vehicles could lead to “increased risks of violence, property destruction and undermined civil liberties,” according to nj.com.

The letter, signed by ACLU NJ Public Policy Director Ari Rosmarin, said the armored vehicles, or MRAPs, are designed for use in combat war zones and that their use could lead to an unnecessary militarization of the police force.

Saudino has said the vehicles—one will only be for spare parts—will increase safety throughout the county and will not cost the taxpayers anything.