Crans-Montana Police Embrace “Baba-Cool” Vibe with Flower-Power Van
Crans-Montana’s inter-municipal police force has adopted a unique approach to community policing this spring: patrolling in a brightly decorated, electric van reminiscent of the hippie era. The vehicle, a Volkswagen Combi adorned with flowers, isn’t intended for emergency response, but rather to foster dialog and build trust with residents.
The van’s distinctive appearance has already garnered attention. “He is very recognizable! And it is true that he always lends to smile when we see him,” a local resident commented during a recent appearance on the program Colors Locales. Another passerby playfully asked,”When is the long hair and the rest?”
Chief Sergeant Grégory Praplan admits the officers initially needed time to adjust to the van’s unconventional aesthetic. “At the beginning, frankly, we had to adapt a little. And it was by starting to patrol, seeing the return of people, that we said to ourselves that we were in the real one,” he explained. He acknowledged that the van’s imagery – a symbol of a counter-culture movement – contrasts sharply with customary perceptions of law enforcement, noting that some within the police force were initially “shaken up” by the concept.”There is a police environment that remains opaque and who does not like or does not understand – it is the choice of each,” Praplan stated.
Though, the police believe the van’s eye-catching design is proving effective in breaking down barriers. Commander Yves Sauvain emphasized the goal is to create a more approachable image. “This breaks this image of the severe police officer that we dare not approach. Even children come and discuss the bus, so it’s extremely enriching,” he said.
The initiative represents a deliberate effort to cultivate a more relaxed and trusting relationship between the police and the community, blending a “hippie spirit” with the responsibilities of maintaining public safety.
(Source: Romain Boisset/miro)
