Fleet
Dedicated to Excellence .. People Serving People
The Fleet Division of the Panama City PD are more than just mechanics; they’re logistical strategists, procurement specialists, certification agents, and emergency response partners. Their work ensures officers have reliable, well-equipped vehicles and gear, enhancing operational readiness across the department.
The Fleet Division of the Panama City Police Department plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in keeping the local law enforcement machine running smoothly. Staffed by skilled professionals—such as the Fleet Coordinator or Quartermaster—this team manages every aspect of the department’s vehicle and equipment needs. They oversee preventative maintenance of all patrol vehicles—marked, unmarked, specialty units—and ensure each vehicle is inspected monthly and serviced according to schedule. This not only includes oil changes and brake checks but also specialized certifications like in‑car radar, speedometer calibration, and emergency light and siren inspections.
Beyond upkeep, the Fleet Division handles procurement and outfitting duties. They research vendors, issue purchase orders, and evaluate new equipment—like racks, prisoner partitions, consoles, safety lightbars, and radios—to keep up with evolving technology. Upon delivery, vehicles are outfitted and deployed, with vehicle assignments and gear issuing tracked meticulously. This includes coordinating decals, licensing, and titling, as well as managing the return of old gear and reissuing it as needed.
The division also plays a strategic role in budgeting and fleet planning—analyzing repair and accident data, monitoring fuel usage, and recommending vehicle replacements based on trends and lifecycle analysis . During emergencies like hurricanes, Fleet staff are designated “emergency essential,” ensuring vehicles and equipment are prepped, repaired, and recovered efficiently in support of critical response capabilities.
Notably, the Panama City PD has also been incorporating new vehicle types into its fleet. In early 2023, they introduced electric motorcycles—saving on fuel and maintenance while offering quiet patrol vehicles ideal for community engagement and trail patrols. Later that year, they added seven new Ford F‑150 trucks, selected for their high-water capabilities, synchronized emergency lighting, and advanced spotlight control, signaling a fleet optimized for local environmental conditions.
