Mayor Defends Purchase of Segway for Police

Gloucester Township Mayor David Mayer on Thursday defended his police department's purchase and deployment of a Segway gyro-scooter in the face mounting public criticism.

"We have a comprehensive community policing strategy that we implemented in 2010 to make our officers more visible in the community," Mayer said. "They're out there talking to our residents and business community, engaging them in fighting crime, and it's working."

Police announced Wednesday they were deploying an X2 Segway two-wheeled vehicle to patrol parks and other areas in the township. The vehicle cost $8,489.89, police said. . Camden County has a similar armored vehicle that can be deployed for tactical situations.

"First new SUV’s, F150’s, a tank and now Segways. I guess a helicopter is next on the list," one user said on Thursday.

"I am a bit disappointed in this purchase," another user said. "First because as a citizen of Gloucester Township, I had no idea this was even on the table; and second, didn't we just have to have golf carts and bikes for park patrol?

"Wow our parades are going to be amazing with the tank, Segways, and the electric cars we will now have," a third user said.

Mayer said the purchases are an "investment in public safety."

"We want residents to feel they can approach our police officers and talk to them," he said. "They're out there talking to kids and parents and getting positive results. This is just an extension of that."

Chief Harry Earle did not immediately return an email and phone call for comment.