Square One Mall deploys new T3 law enforcement vehicles

SAUGUS ? Shoppers at the Square One Mall could be feeling safer now that the security officers are riding aboard state-of-the-industry T3 Series, three-wheeled law enforcement patrol vehicles.Simon Property Group, which owns the shopping center, introduced the T3 units last weekend. “The three-wheeled T3 vehicles make the officers more visible while the 9-inch, elevated platform enables them to see over the tops of cars,” said Julie Chavanne, a Simon spokesperson. “This enhanced ability for T3 offices to see and be seen has helped reduce crime at retail centers throughout the United States.”According to Chavanne, Square One Mall is the first retail center in New England to deploy the vehicles, and more units will be put into service at Simon properties across the region beginning in 2009.Last year, Salem State College’s campus security force began using the T3 units, which allow the officers to zip around the grounds on patrol while simultaneously mingling with the students, faculty and other staff.The T3 units can reach speeds of up to 20 mph. Their design is the result of in-depth consultation with law enforcement and security industry professionals.”The T3 Series features a zero-degree turning radius and compact design ? perfect for maneuvering through crowds and tight spaces, both inside and outside the mall,” said Chavanne, adding that the vehicle is easy to use, with an intuitive operation system.With zero-gas emissions and LED lighting, the T3 ranks high on the list of environmentally-friendly vehicles and can run for less than 10 cents per day. The T3’s rechargeable, lightweight batteries help insure minimal downtime.”We strive for everyone who visits Square One Mall to have a pleasant shopping experience, and feeling safe is a large part of that,” said Susan Yee, area mall manager for Simon Property Group and manager of the Saugus mall. “We value our longstanding relationship with the Saugus Police Department and have always strived to create a safe environment for our shoppers. Now, with these revolutionary T3 vehicles, our security staff will be enhanced and more visible to shoppers, creating an even safer environment.”The T3 is made by T3 Motion, Inc., based in California and a leader in personal mobility technology. The vehicle continues to grow in popularity since its introduction at the International Association of Chiefs of Police conference in October 2006.”The T3 has been warmly embraced by the public and become a valuable community relations tool wherever it goes,” said Neil Brooker, president of T3 Motion.