The Tarrant County College Police Explorer was awarded third place in the Law and Order Magazine 2006 International Police Vehicle Design Contest sponsored by Hendon Publishing.  TCC finished third place in the federal or state agency category.  The third prize is accompanied by a monetary prize which is contributed to a charity of the agency’s choice.  The police department donated the $50 cash prize to the Fort Worth Police Officers Association towards the building of the Fort Worth Police and Fire Memorial.

The Tarrant County College Police vehicle design is based on the universally accepted police base color of white with accented blue and yellow striping.  The current markings have been in use for approximately six years and the selected design was a result of a combination of factors such as functionality, simplicity of design, and safety.  The markings promote a safe and visible vehicle aimed at safety of officers and crime prevention. The overall multi-colored reflective markings aid in immediate identification and address enhanced visibility in low light and no light conditions.  The final design was a collaborative effort resulting in one design from many designers. 

Sgt. Ralph Jeffries assisted Tarrant County College District photographer, Ross Pinson, in the photo shoot of Unit SE 733 for entry into the police vehicle design contest. Along with the entry application and photographs, a Statement of Purpose was written to accompany the application.  The judging was based on the integrity and uniqueness of the designs.  The judges focused on the safety of the officer driving the vehicle which included amber lights and having plenty of reflective tape, decals or chevron, particularly on the rear of the vehicle.  The judges honed in on safety, functionality and overall attractiveness when deciding the winners.

The TCC Police Department is proud to be a highly visible asset to all who seek assistance and a determined participant in crime prevention.  The police unit markings identify our officers as members of a service organization dedicated to the very best of traditions of Texas Peace Officers. The markings project a professional image of our College and our department.  The design displays the official college identity symbol of a single five-pointed multi-colored star which is the recognized “signature” of Tarrant County College and the great state of Texas.  Each arm of the star represents the five separate campuses located throughout Tarrant County and the county’s diverse population.  The District star logo reinforces the spirit of oneness – not only as a college but as a police department.  One institution and one people.  

The Tarrant County College Police vehicle was featured in the July issue of Law and Order Magazine and also the August issue of Police Fleet Manager.   

Click here for photo of award-winning TCC PD unit