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IRWIN COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - The Irwin County Sheriff’s Office is addressing community questions surrounding its recent acquisition of an armored vehicle, emphasizing transparency about how the vehicle was obtained and why it is needed.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the armored vehicle was acquired through the Department of Defense Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO) Excess Property Program. The federal program allows participating agencies to obtain surplus equipment, including vehicles and protective gear, at no cost. Officials say the armored vehicle was obtained at zero cost to the Sheriff’s Office and Irwin County taxpayers.

Sheriff’s Office officials say the vehicle is intended to enhance deputy safety during high-risk situations. The request was made in response to several serious incidents in the county over the past few years, including officer-involved shootings, situations where suspects fired at deputies from inside residences, barricaded subjects claiming homes were rigged with explosives, and protests near the county jail involving individuals wearing ballistic vests and carrying assault-style rifles.

Authorities say the armored vehicle can also be used to safely extract deputies who may become pinned down during dangerous encounters and unable to leave the scene safely.

The Sheriff’s Office stressed the vehicle will not be used for routine patrols or everyday law enforcement duties. Instead, it is reserved for critical incidents where additional protection is necessary for deputies and the public. When appropriate, the agency also plans to make the vehicle available to assist neighboring counties through mutual aid agreements.

Officials say the goal of the announcement is to provide residents with clear and accurate information, reaffirming that the vehicle was acquired responsibly and at no cost to the community.

The Sheriff’s Office says its mission remains focused on public safety, preparedness, and the responsible use of resources, adding that it appreciates the continued support and trust of Irwin County residents.

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