'The Grappler': Sheriff Unveils New Tool That Can Stop Fleeing Suspects In Their Tracks

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Law enforcement has revealed a new tool that can safely and quickly put an end to potentially dangerous car chases.

The Putnam County Sheriff's Office has recently trained deputies on the Grappler, an advanced pursuit intervention tool designed to safely stop fleeing vehicles and help bring dangerous vehicle pursuits to a swift and safer conclusion, Sheriff Brian Hess said.

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The Grappler provides deputies with a new tool to help safely stop fleeing vehicles, reduce the risks associated with dangerous pursuits, and, in some cases, may even prevent a pursuit before it begins, the department said.

"We will continue investing in the most advanced tools, technology, and training available to help our deputies protect the residents of Putnam County," Sheriff Hess said.

The Grappler works by deploying a net under a police car's front bumper to entangle the suspect vehicle's rear wheel, allowing law enforcement to bring the fleeing vehicle to a controlled stop.

Law enforcement agencies have tough decisions to make when evaluating the risk versus reward of pursuing fleeing vehicles, according to the department. While efforts are made to avoid unnecessary pursuits, the sheriff's department said there are some situations where suspects pose an immediate threat to the public and law enforcement has no choice but to act quickly to stop them.

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The department said the Grappler system reflects the Sheriff's Office's continued commitment to utilizing modern technology and innovative tools to enhance public safety and protect innocent motorists, deputies, and the community.

The Grappler system was purchased using asset forfeiture funds, according to the department.