The Billings Police Department has applied for a 2025 Homeland Security Grant in the amount of $495,000 to purchase a Rook Armored Response (Rook) Vehicle for the Billings Police Department tactical team. The Rook provides ballistic protection and transportation which may be utilized in a wide array of critical incidents, including hostage rescue, barricaded suspects, active shooter, riot control, natural disaster relief, and public evacuations. The Rook provides service advantages that other tactical vehicles don't have. Unlike traditional armored vehicles, the Rook is capable of being used in tight areas both inside and outside public buildings to transport personnel or equipment and for surveillance. It is designed with mission-specific attachments that increase job safety and can easily be changed depending on situational needs.  

The single Armored Response Vehicle designed for tactical operations in Yellowstone County is over 15 years old and is shared between BPD SWAT and the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) Tactical Response Team (TRT). The BPD SWAT and Yellowstone County TRT currently serve a combined population of nearly 180,000 citizens between both agencies, the largest population county in the State. In addition, the 7 bordering counties of Yellowstone County adds up to approximately 230,000 citizens within close proximity of Yellowstone County. One armored response vehicle that is currently shared between two teams of our size is a risk not only to officers, but to the surrounding communities we serve.  

Grant funds will cover the purchase of the Rook Armored Response Vehicle and trailer.  

N/A

• Approve the Federal FY25 Department of Homeland Security Grant in the amount of $495,000 to purchase a Rook Armored Vehicle; or,
• Not Approve the Federal FY25 Department of Homeland Security Grant in the amount of $495,000 and direct staff to not purchase a Rook Armored Vehicle.