Arkansas Nuclear One donates BearCat to Pope County Sheriff's Office

Press Release > Arkansas Nuclear One Donates BearCat to Pope County Sheriff's Office

For immediate release

06/06/2024

An armored vehicle formerly used by nuclear security now helps law enforcement

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Entergy's Arkansas Nuclear One recently donated one of its armed security vehicles to the Pope County Sheriff's Office for use in law enforcement activities .

Entergy uses the vehicles to protect the health and safety of the public from radiological sabotage, but donates them as a means of good stewardship in the community and to help foster a symbiotic partnership with local authorities.

“We are honored to be able to support local law enforcement through this donation,” said Doug Pehrson, ANO Site Vice President. “And we’re proud to energize lives by supporting our community in this way.” »

The Lenco BearCat is a wheeled SWAT vehicle designed for military and police use. The vehicle is based on a Ford F-550 Super Duty commercial truck chassis with a diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The steel armored body features ballistic glass capable of hitting multiple hits, blast-resistant floors, portholes, roof hatches and other equipment.

“We are grateful for this generous donation to our department,” said Sheriff Shane Jones. “Not only will this vehicle allow the Sheriff’s Office to respond to events in Pope County, but it will also allow us to respond to a potential event at Arkansas Nuclear One.”

Lenco BearCats have been credited with saving the lives of officers during armed encounters on numerous occasions.

Supporting and improving the quality of life in the communities where Entergy operates through strategic investments is a core value. Entergy strives to contribute to a healthy, educated, environmentally responsible and productive society.