Photo: Oasis Powersports

MARION – The Williamson County Sheriff’s Department and Oasis Powersports held an event Tuesday that placed All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) on the front line of fighting crime and community service. The sheriff’s department received two new ATVs purchased from the dealership as part of the newly implemented Williamson County Sheriff’s Office ATV Criminal Patrol Program.

“It is my belief that a program of this nature is thinking outside the box and provides more than one avenue to stop criminal activity,” said Sheriff Jeff Diederich. “ATVs in our area have been linked to ATV theft, catalytic converter theft, robbery, home invasion, property theft, motor vehicle theft, as well as other criminal activity.”

“As long as we’ve owned businesses in Williamson County, we have collaborated with, and supported, the sheriff’s department and all law enforcement agencies,” said Black Diamond Co-Owner Shad Zimbro.

“The timing of this project with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Diederich, was perfect. As a result, we recognized an ongoing need and dedicated the resources required to launch Oasis Powersports’ First Responder ATV Program,” said Black Diamond Co-Owner Rodney Cabaness.

In gratitude, Oasis Powersports has donated $15,000 to the sheriff’s department to help offset the expenses of the Sheriff’s ATV Criminal Patrol Program. Leading Oasis Powersports’ new First Responder ATV Program is the company’s Brand Manager, Josh Allen. “As a former air ambulance helicopter pilot, with more than two decades as a powersports athlete and enthusiast, Josh is uniquely qualified to pair EMS providers, fire departments, municipalities and law enforcement agencies with ATV’s customized with each departments unique needs in mind,” said Cabaness.

Allen pointed out that ATV’s have exceptional capabilities that make them invaluable well beyond law enforcement. “These vehicles deploy quickly and are highly maneuverable, relatively quiet, and able to traverse rough terrain,” said Allen. “ATVs are ideal to respond to emergencies in areas inaccessible by other vehicles. They are perfect for security during special events such as parades, festivals, and protests. ATVs are also widely deployed for disaster relief and assistance with environmental issues.”

Oasis Powersports is located in the former Toy-R-Us building, 2904 West DeYoung, in Marion or online at www.OasisPowerSports.world.