The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office unveiled a uniquely designed cruiser this week, according to Cowboy State Daily. The new Dodge Durango features striking Western artwork and aims to attract attention while serving as a recruiting tool.
What happened
The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office introduced a new cruiser that sharply contrasts with standard sheriff vehicles. This Dodge Durango, adorned with vibrant Western artwork, was specifically intended to stand out. Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak remarked, “It looks pretty badass,” emphasizing the vehicle’s design appeal.
The striking design showcases a cowboy on horseback, racing against a white backdrop. Sheriff Kozak commissioned local artist Jordan Dean to create this eye-catching graphic. “I wanted a high plains drifter, Clint Eastwood kind of cowboy hard charge-in graphic,” he stated, a request Dean fulfilled with dramatic flair.
The cruiser debuted during a downtown summer event in Cheyenne, allowing families to engage with deputies and explore the vehicle. Kozak noted the response, saying, “That is the coolest car we’ve ever seen,” from attendees and fellow law enforcement officers alike.
Why it matters
This recruitment-focused cruiser serves a dual purpose: to attract attention and promote job opportunities within the sheriff’s office. As Laramie County faces challenges with staffing, the sheriff’s office employs around 240 personnel but maintains approximately a 10% vacancy rate. A vehicle that inspires curiosity may facilitate necessary conversations about career prospects.
The innovative design may not just be a conversation starter; it could help fill vital positions at a time when many agencies struggle to maintain adequate staffing levels amid retirements and departures.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Sheriff Kozak reached out to artist Jordan Dean to create murals for the Laramie County Detention Center. Following this collaboration, Dean expressed a desire to design law enforcement vehicles, inspired by notable Western figures like Wyatt Earp, blending them with modern aesthetics.
Since then, the discussions between the sheriff and the artist evolved into the creation of a cruiser that resonates with Wyoming’s heritage, targeting the community’s interest while crafting a visually impactful representation of law enforcement.
What’s next
The new cruiser will be actively used in recruitment efforts at various public events, featuring enhancements like a pull-out television screen for showing hiring videos and an upcoming installation of a gaming system designed to engage youth in discussions about law enforcement careers.
