Managano Places More Ambulances on the Streets

Says Vehicles Will Decrease Response Times to Aid Public Safety

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced today that the County will purchase two new, fuel efficient ambulances for its police department, using asset forfeiture funds, or money generated through the sale of assets seized in drug-related convictions.  The two ambulances, which cost $300,000, would bring the department’s fleet to 42.

"It’s a great day when we can turn the asset of a crime into a benefit for the community," said Mangano.  "These new ambulances will help save lives."

Last week, County Executive Mangano and the Nassau County Police Department also welcomed an additional four ambulances that will soon hit the streets in an effort to reduce the shortage of working vehicles.

"Our police department had nearly 1,000 occasions last year when no working ambulance was available at a post and the 911 call had to be diverted to the fire department instead," said Mangano.  "Those delays resulted in longer response times to emergency calls and cost the police about $2 million in lost revenue. That’s simply unacceptable.”

The four new ambulances are currently being equipped with computers and lights and will be on the road shortly.