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mr surveyor wrote:"even have to buy their own patrol cars"

Yep, seriously. The deputies buy their vehicles, then the county outfits them with markings, lights, and comm equipment (and cages if needed). The deputies then get a monthly vehicle allowance. If they take good care of the vehicle and make it last longer than the bank note, the allowance makes a nice monthly bonus.

We see a wide variety of vehicles. Luminas, Intrepids, Chargers, Durangos, Blazers...

I don't think it's common these days (at least, I don't see it any more), but deputies used to park, then ride along with troopers. Made the vehicle last a lot longer, and saved gas money.

bauerdj wrote:Harris Co. SO does not issue a firearm, each officer must purchase his/her own upon entry into the academy.

Same with Bowie Co. SO. I don't know if they even have an approved list.

But then, our deputies buy not only their own firearms, but also their uniforms and even have to buy their own patrol cars!