Pleasant Prairie, Wis. – In an effort to increase safety on local roadways, the Pleasant Prairie Police Department started using a new device called the Grappler last month. The system, which drops a heavy nylon net onto the rear wheel of a fleeing vehicle, is designed to bring high‑speed pursuits to a quick, controlled stop.
How the Grappler works
The Grappler consists of a sturdy nylon net attached to a metal bar that is lowered from the front of a police squad car. When deployed, the net wraps around the rear tire of the suspect’s vehicle, slowing it enough for officers to safely intervene. Each net is single‑use and costs roughly $400 to replace. The entire mechanism, capable of up to 100 deployments, runs between $8,000 and $10,000.
Police chief’s perspective
Chief David Selvidge praised the tool’s potential, saying, “I would like to have it on every car that I have.” He emphasized that the Grappler is intended to protect the motoring public, stating, “We’re de‑escalating on behalf of the innocent people that are out there, that are in the path of this dangerous person.” Selvidge also cautioned that the device is not a “magic bullet” and may not be appropriate in every situation, but added, “When the time is right, there’s no greater success than stopping that dangerous fleeing vehicle from potentially hurting or killing someone.”
Early results and future considerations
During the first month of use, Pleasant Prairie officers reported three successful deployments and three attempts that did not work as intended. Chief Selvidge noted uncertainty about the Grappler’s performance in cold weather or on slick road surfaces, and said other Wisconsin agencies are watching the results before deciding to adopt the technology themselves.
“If it prevents the loss of one life, it’s priceless,” Selvidge said, reflecting the department’s hope that the tool will become a valuable addition to law‑enforcement resources.
Broader adoption across the state
The Grappler is currently employed by over 165 agencies in 34 states, according to its manufacturer, Grappler Police Bumper, which introduced the system in 2018. While the company declined to name specific departments that may be considering the device, the growing interest suggests a trend toward innovative, non‑lethal methods for ending vehicle pursuits.
Community impact
Local residents have expressed relief that police are exploring alternatives to high‑speed chases that can end in serious accidents. By focusing on de‑escalation and public safety, the Grappler aligns with Pleasant Prairie’s broader commitment to protecting families and preserving the peace of the community.
Police officials plan to continue monitoring the Grappler’s effectiveness and will share further data as more deployments occur.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.
