West Chester, PA (June 20, 2025) – The Downingtown Borough and Malvern Borough Police Departments are both getting new all-terrain utility vehicles (UTVs) thanks to grant funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
Both departments plan to use the new vehicles to conduct patrols and community outreach during densely populated events and in responding to off-road emergencies during extreme weather events or on regional trails, parks, nature preserves, and wooded areas.
“As a former borough Mayor, I know the challenges that our police and law enforcement face in keeping our families and children safe in growing communities. Whether it’s responding to emergencies in accessible areas, attending outdoor events, or patrolling our parks and trails, these UTVs will help our police quickly get where they need to go to do their jobs,” said Comitta.
Each department was awarded $50,000 in state funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
“Downingtown Borough has an increased need for a smaller yet more versatile emergency response vehicle. This all-terrain utility vehicle will play a crucial role in situations that are difficult to manage in a traditional police vehicle or on foot, where a delayed response time could heighten the risk of harm to our community,” said Brendan P. Brazunas, Downingtown Chief of Police. “The acquisition of this vehicle, made possible by this grant, will significantly enhance our ability to better prepare to manage special events, patrol regional trails, and provide logistical support during severe weather events. We are deeply grateful to Senator Comitta, who has been instrumental in this process.”
“The Malvern Borough Police Department has acquired an all-terrain utility vehicle, funded by the DCED grant, to enhance access to trails, parks, and wooded areas within the borough. This initiative, supported by Senator Comitta, aims to overcome the challenges faced by conventional SUV emergency vehicles in these terrains, thereby improving the safety and security of residents and visitors by providing us with the necessary equipment to deliver better services,” said Louis Marcelli, Malvern Chief of Police. “The police department expresses gratitude to Senator Comitta for her crucial role in facilitating this purchase and acknowledges her continued support of law enforcement and her positive relationship with the community.”
In the legislature, Comitta has consistently supported investments in police and new laws and policies that help ensure our Chester County communities are safe, welcoming, friendly, and inclusive places where all people can thrive and prosper.
That includes securing $250,000 for body cameras for the West Chester Police Department, new technology for police in Oxford, South Coatesville, East Fallowfield, and West Goshen, $1 million for a New Municipal Complex and Police Station in East Fallowfield, and funding for nearly 400 new Pennsylvania State Troopers in the state budget.