U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

Police Practices: Surveillance On a Shoestring

NCJ Number
117373
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 58 Issue: 4 Dated: (April 1989) Pages: 14-15
Editor(s)
S D Gladis
Date Published
1989
Length
2 pages
Annotation
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue turned a van into a surveillance vehicle using ingenuity, automotive knowhow, and a minimum amount of money.
Abstract
The Department picked a standard utility van in a popular color. To this, it added a hinged bulkhead to partition off the rear, three small consoles to house surveillance equipment, a second battery and a battery isolator, and dead bolt locks on exterior doors. Side windows were covered with plywood (painted black) with trapdoors for looking out. With the exception of the radio, a public address system, and sirens, all of these additions can be installed for under $500. In selecting a van for conversion, other desirable options include automatic transmission, heavy suspension, a rear roof vent or exhaust fan, air conditioning and heating, cloth seats or seat covers, cruise control, a sliding side door, a standard radio, and a heavy-duty alternator/battery package. A complete instruction manual with step-by-step instructions is available from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. Photographs.