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Sirens off, jokes on: Law enforcement agencies roll out their best April Fools’ pranks

From a new roller skate unit to “free” helicopter rides to jail, law enforcement used satire to connect with their communities

April Fools’ Day gave police departments across the country a chance to swap sirens for sarcasm — and they delivered. From tactical kilts and fashion-forward foot pursuits to a veggie-filled donut box and free helicopter rides to jail, agencies used humor to connect with their communities and show a different side of the badge.

Here’s how some departments joined in on the April Fools’ fun.

Reno Police Department’s new “Roller Unit”

The Reno (Nev.) Police Department announced the deployment of “The Reno Police Roller Unit” for downtown patrols, featuring officers on roller skates to enhance agility in urban environments.

Asheville Police Department: Fashion meets function

The Asheville (N.C.) Police Department isn’t just fighting crime — they’re doing it with style. In a dramatic (and clearly tongue-in-cheek) video posted to Facebook, the department announced a bold new era starting today — complete with slow-motion foot pursuits, high-fashion tactical uniforms and replacing cruiser sirens with classical music. The video closes with a friendly reminder: Happy April Fools’ Day.

Jerome Police Department: Tactical kilts and summer readiness

The Jerome (Idaho) Police Department is taking transparency — and ventilation — to a whole new level. In a detailed and hilarious April Fools’ Day post, the department unveiled its newest uniform upgrade: the Tactical Kilt. Citing benefits like improved mobility, unisex appeal and even restroom efficiency, the department said the kilt is the answer to surviving Southern Idaho’s scorching summer forecast. Officers were photographed proudly sporting the kilts, paired with a promise: “Sock garters will be issued to avoid any Marilyn Monroe-type situations.”

Cedar Park Police Department: Running on ... veggies?

Cedar Park (Texas) Police had some fun with a familiar stereotype this April Fools’ Day. In a photo shared on X, a Dunkin’ Donuts box sits open — but instead of donuts, it’s filled with carrots, celery, broccoli and cherry tomatoes.

“Not cool whoever messed with our power rings,” the caption reads.

Edgewater Park Township Police Department: #Comfyonduty

Forget boots on the ground — Edgewater Park Township (N.J.) officers are stepping into April with something a little more breathable. In a Facebook post, the department shared that officers reported for duty wearing Birkenstocks, asking followers, “Would you take us serious in these?” The post walks the line between fashion and farce, pairing #PoliceInSlippers with a solid April Fools’ laugh. One thing’s for sure: comfort never takes a day off.

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office: Free rides to jail

The Palm Beach County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Office took to X to offer a special one-day-only promotion: free helicopter rides ... to jail. In the April Fools’ Day post, the department joked that its helicopter was available for complimentary transportation — but only for those with outstanding warrants.

Puyallup Police Department: Crocs on patrol

The Puyallup (Wash.) Police Department put their best foot forward this April Fools’ Day — in Crocs. In a Facebook post, the agency announced a new footwear upgrade for officers on foot patrol: comfort-forward Crocs equipped with flashing lights “for foot pursuits.” While definitely a joke, the post struck the perfect balance between humor and creativity — and maybe sparked a few new ideas for off-duty wear.

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