Santa Cruz community members organized a protest yesterday opposing the city’s recent purchase of an armored vehicle. Last month, the city council accepted a $251,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security for a Lenco BearCat. Demonstrators gathered in the city council chambers yesterday, concerned the purchase will lead to the militarization of the police force. Police Chief Kevin Vogel addressed the protesters, emphasizing that the vehicle will not be used offensively and its use will require approval from the city manager. The BearCat will arrive in five to six months.
