BATAVIA, N.Y. — A vehicle known as an MRAP, which stands for Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected, will soon be seen around Genesee County, but there's no reason for residents to be concerned.
The Batavia Police Department and Genesee County Sherrif's office have taken delivery of the armored rescue vehicle as part of a government program that provides surplus military vehicles to local law enforcement departments for free.
The MRAP is designed to withstand improvised explosvie devices and ambush attacks. Its heavy weight and big tires make it a perfect vehicle to use during flooding and other natural disasters.
Starting Friday the vehicle will be retrofitted with equipment including lights, sirens, seating and communications to make it suitable for the departments' use.
The vehicle will also be used for high-risk law enforcement activities such as active threats or warrant executions.