Replacing cruiser windows cheaper than reinforcement

Hernando Today

BROOKSVILLE - Every now and then a person in handcuffs gets riled up enough to kick out the windows of a deputy's cruiser.

It happened Sunday when Elaine Spracklen was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence. Deputies say she broke the glass out of one car while en route to jail, then bent the window frame of the replacement car.

There were no more episodes once deputies shackled her legs.

Some jurisdictions, including Orlando, take a proactive approach and place bars over the rear windows to prevent this. What would it cost the Hernando County Sheriff's Office?

Calculating an average $200 per the 205 vehicles with "cages," it would take about $41,000, according to Sgt. Donna Black, spokeswoman.

The cost of replacement is far lower. According to HCSO numbers:

In 2006, nine windows were replaced at a cost of $1,701; in 2007, four windows for $716; in 2008, six windows at $1,074; and to date in 2009, seven windows at $1,083. The grand total: $4,574.

"Comparing us to Orlando is like Brooksville to Miami, they have far more action and vehicles ..." Black said in an e-mail.