In 1901, whenArizona was still a territory, the territorial governor organized the first regional law enforcement force, the "Arizona Rangers." having focused mainly on rustling and smuggling, the group was disbanded in 1909. But Arizona would become a state three years later. More than two decades later, the Arizona Highway Patrol was instituted in response to an increasing number of accidents and unlicensed vehicles. At the time, the force consisted of one patrolman for each of Arizona's 14 counties, a superintendent and a desk sergeant.

In the late 1960s, the various law enfircement agencies in Arizona were assembled into a single unit: the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The Department was charged with enforcing state laws, especially in the areas of traffic, narcotics, organised crime and racketeering, liquor and specific regulatory functions. Then as now, the Highway Patrol is responsible for providing a safe environment for the public on Arizona's highways, interdicting criminal activity, supporting other criminal justice agencies and responding rapidly to civil emergencies.

In Arizona, there are more than 6,000 miles of state and federal highways to patrol and, throughout its history, the Highway Patrol has patrolled this vast area in a variety of cars.

Now, a classic 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle with Arizona Highway Patrol markings is recreated in an exciting die-cast model. Complete with a roof light, spotlights, authentic police wheels and official graphics of the Arizona Highway Patrol, this model is produced by - and available only from - Matchbox Collectibles.

(1999)

Scale: 1:43