MARION, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Williamson County Sheriff's Office are now using cruise mode lighting to help deter crime.
The sheriff's office announced they are using the cruise mode lighting with their patrol vehicle fleet. They explained cruise mode lighting as a low-intensity, steady burning lights which are designed to enhance the presence of patrol vehicles, especially during evening hours or in low-light situations.
"With 'cruise mode lighting', the light bar on top of Deputies' vehicles won't be fully lit; only the red and blue lights on the left and right side of the bar will be illuminated," the sheriff's office detailed in an online platform.
The sheriff's office said most patrol vehicles have this option which just needs some reprogramming to operate. The lighting is displayed dimmer than regular emergency lighting and does not flash.
"Cruise mode lighting� makes it possible for our Deputies to be more visible and increase the likelihood that we will deter crime before it occurs�, stated Sheriff Jeff Diederich.
The sheriff's office said this type of lighting is a growing trend across the nation which deters crime and has been shown to decrease the number of stolen vehicles, arrests, vehicle burglaries and vehicle accidents, among other reductions in criminal activity.
"The use of 'cruise mode lighting' lets our community know that our Deputies are out there, being more visible, and keeping their community safe," added Sheriff Diederich.
The Williamson County Sheriff's Office plans to have patrol vehicles utilize “Cruise mode lighting� mainly in the overnight hours, however, drivers of the units may use them anytime of the day.
The sheriff's office said they have tested this feature already which allows the public to quickly realize deputies are out patrolling their community.
