SAN DIEGO — On January 1st 2024, a new California state law once again made cruising in a Low Rider legal.
In this Zevely Zone, I went to City Heights where the San Diego Police Department is dusting off their secret weapon.
Officer Omar from the community relations division never dreamed he'd be driving a low rider. "Alright Jeff are you ready?" asked Officer Omar as he hit the car's switches. "Let's say I wanted to lift it from the front I hit the switch and let's say I want to match the back I hit the switch," said Officer Omar. "This is one of the best jobs in the department."
The low rider is called The Guardian. It was paid for by $50,000 in donations.
"We're getting comfortable because it's going to be a bumpy ride," said Officer Omar as he turned onto University Avenue. Now that cruising is legal again in California, you'll be seeing The Guardian all over town.
The car is maintained by Star Pal, a non-profit that builds lasting relationships between the community and law enforcement. Mayra Nunez, Star Pal's Director of Community Impact grew up in Southeast San Diego and explained the symbolism of the car's artwork.
"It is predominantly Southeast San Diego, and it is a mural of an officer with a youth being part of the community," said Mayra.
Included in the painting is an image of her personal low rider. Mayra even has her 1981 Buick tattooed on her arm in hopes of erasing a negative stigma.
"Often times people see low riders as drug dealers or gang members, but we are employed, we are business owners, we are family members," said Mayra.
Back on the road, Officer Omar and I were attracting a lot of attention.
"So, this is what it's like to be cruising right? You get into that vibe. I think this vehicle symbolizes unity," said Officer Omar. "I've heard to comment that when I see a police car it causes fear, this is a police car that does not cause fear it creates this attraction, right?"
"Good morning, everyone, CBS is in the house," announced Officer Omar on the loudspeaker. Everywhere we cruised, heads turned, and people smiled. "Morning. Buenos dias good morning," said Officer Omar.
"I just posted you guys on my Snapchat. I've never seen a car like this. A cop car that is a low rider, you never see this, ever," said Amanda Edwards.
She feels outreach like this is what police should be doing.
"Very friendly vibes, you guys are blending in really well with that because I've met cops you know and they are not bad they are really not bad you know but this right here you guys outdid yourself right here," said Amanda.
Sometimes life isn't black and white; it's a partnership where you meet in the middle.
"We can't do this alone, we need the community's support," said Officer Omar who grew up in San Ysidro. He says driving low rider is the high point of his career.
"It's funny because now that I represent the San Diego Police Department they provided me with a low rider," said Officer Omar.
The Guardian has been around since 2013. The Crown Victoria is expected to make numerous appearances this year at schools, parades and community events.