READ MORE: Springfield pregnant woman shot in the head: What we know now
“I have had the opportunity to see Deputy Berner interact in your classroom and other special events such as Safety Village, National Night Out, the Clark County Fair,” Burchett said. “Deputy Berner has never turned away from a child or his community.”
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was presented to Berner during a surprise ceremony in front of the school. Fifth-grade students lined up in front of the Jeep so when Berner first exited the school he couldn’t see what the Jeep said. When Burchett asked the students to move aside, Berner got his first glimpse.
“I am totally surprised and shocked. This thing is amazing,” Berner said. “Completely unexpected. I knew I was going to get a new vehicle but I did not know it was going to look like this.”
The jeep is wrapped with a slick paint job that was donated by Drive 1 Car and Truck in Springfield. “DARE” is written on the side of the Jeep and in both back windows it says, “Courtesy of your local drug dealers.”
DETAILS: Victor’s opening day coming soon in Springfield
The Jeep was forfeited by a drug dealer after the person was found guilty, Burchett said,
“This vehicle was taken from a local drug dealer and was accessorized and paid for by seized drug money, not costing the citizens of Clark County a penny,” Burchett said.
Berner typically works in schools teaching kids the dangers of drugs. Drug dealers should think twice before continuing their lifestyle, Berner said.
“There is a better way,” he said. “There is help out there and a better choice. Start making better decisions.”
MORE COVERAGE: Springfield pilot surprised with prestigious national FAA award
About the Author