Columbia's city council members have approved funds to purchase an Armored Personnel Carrier for the Columbia Police Department.
The Department plans to replace its current vehicle with the Lenco BearCat, at a cost of about $200,000. Council members approved the appropriation at Monday night's city council meeting.
Columbia Police Chief Ken Burton said it is essential to have such a vehicle in case of gun violence.
In a 6 to 1 vote the City Council approved using forfeiture funds, the money coming from the proceeds of criminal activity, for the purchase. Some Columbia residents spoke against the decision, saying public safety officials should find other ways to fund the purchase.