Special to IFN

Iredell County Sheriff’s Office deputies have encountered two dangerous situations over the past year in which over 350 rounds of ammunition were fired at deputies and the surrounding community.

In one instance, an individual armed with a high-powered rifle was positioned at a second-story window in a populated area. ICSO deputies were unable to block the gunfire, which posed a severe risk that could have led to multiple deaths or injuries.

Sheriff’s Office officials recognized the critical gap in the agency’s ability to respond effectively to incidents involving an elevated active-shooter like the one that claimed the life of four officers in Charlotte.

In response, Sheriff Darren Campbell, with the support of the Iredell County Board of Commissioners, approved the purchase of The Rook, a fully bullet-resistant tactical vehicle. It can be raised to block a shooter’s line of sight and safely deliver Special Emergency Response Team members to upper-level positions.

The Rook can be operated manually by a team member or be fully remote-controlled, offering flexible and secure tactical options. Various attachments can be purchased to assist in different scenarios, such as breaching walls, removing obstacles, and conducting rescue operations.  

“We are committed to ensuring that Iredell County residents are protected from any threat, at any time,” Campbell said. “This vehicle is a testament to that commitment, made possible by a strong Board of Commissioners who understand and prioritize the needs of our community.”

The Rook will be available for any agency in Iredell County that may need to utilize it, the sheriff added.