Hard Rock Northern Indiana gives donation to Gary Police Department
Through a five-year agreement, the company will donate $3m for the purchase of police vehicles.
US.- Mayor of Gary Eddie Melton and Matt Schuffert, president of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, have announced a $3m donation for the purchase 83 police vehicles in a five-year agreement.
In 2025, Hard Rock will contribute $1m, with the City providing $500,000 to make $1.5m for 23 new vehicles. For the next four years, Hard Rock will donate $500,000 each year, with the city matching that amount. This $1m annual investment will allow the purchase of 15 police vehicles each year.
The purchase was made through the State of Indiana’s Qualified Purchasing Agreement.
Mayor Melton said: “Keeping our community safe will always be our top priority. By updating our patrol vehicles, we are making sure our officers have the tools to serve our residents with the professionalism and care they deserve.”
Schuffert added: “Hard Rock has always been committed to supporting the City of Gary and the surrounding communities. This major investment will ensure that the Gary Police Department has all the necessary resources to meet its needs as the city prepares to become the new home of the Lake County Convention Center.”
Derrick Cannon, City of Gary Chief of Police commented: “The Gary Police Department is the busiest police agency in Northwest Indiana, averaging 200 calls for service per day. In 2024, the department responded to approximately 80,000 calls for service. This significant call volume necessitates the need for ongoing upgrades to our fleet, so we can meet demands to better serve our community. Our goal is to provide the highest level of protection for the City of Gary.”
