In 1913, a construction supervisor was robbed and killed in Westchester County. Because the area had no local police department, the perpetrators escaped. Two women - Moyca Newell and Katherine Mayo - initiated a crusade to bring police protection to rural areas. As a result, the New York State Police was established on April 11, 1917. When the force was initiated it consisted of 237 men mounted on horseback and patrolling the rural areas. Today, while the horses have been replaced by the most modern and efficient modes of transportation, the dedication to the safety of New York's citizens and enforcement of its laws has remained constant.

The New York State Police place considerable emphasis on highway safety. In fact, 1998 was the safest year on record in the state with a significant decrease in traffic fatalities from the year before, which itself had been a record year. The troopers on patrol are responsible for enforcing the Vehicle & Traffic Law, investigating motor vehicle crashes, assisting disabled motorists and providing countless other professional services. These efforts are complemented by an aggressive program of safety education and a commitment to providing troopers with the latest skills and equipment.

Now, in tribute to the state troopers of the Empire State comes an exciting die-cast recreation of a 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner. This model captures the powerful styling of a classic muscle car. Featuring two red lights and siren, spotlights, dual exhaust, realistic police wheels and the words "New York State Police," the New York State Police 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner is produced by - and available only from - Matchbox Collectibles.

(2000)

Scale: 1:43