Orlando Cops Patrol in Ice Cream Truck

Sheriff's office uses seized drug money to buy vehicle for community outreach.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Orange County Sheriff's Office in Orlando, Florida has added an ice cream truck to its fleet of vehicles. The sheriff's office is using the truck to drive around the community and hand out free ice cream to local children, funded by money seized from drug dealers.

Why it matters

This unique community policing initiative aims to build positive relationships between law enforcement and youth in the Orlando area, using an approachable and fun method to engage with residents.

The details

The sheriff's office purchased the ice cream truck using money that was seized during drug busts and forfeitures. They are now driving the truck around Orlando neighborhoods, stopping to hand out free ice cream to kids they encounter. The goal is to foster goodwill and trust between the police and the community, especially younger residents.

  • The Orange County Sheriff's Office added the ice cream truck to its fleet in early 2026.

The players

Orange County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency responsible for policing unincorporated areas of Orange County, Florida, including parts of the Orlando metropolitan area.

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What they’re saying

“We wanted to find a fun and engaging way to connect with the kids in our community. What better way than through the universal joy of free ice cream?”

— Sheriff John Mina, Orange County Sheriff (walls102.com)

What’s next

The sheriff's office plans to continue operating the ice cream truck throughout the year, visiting different neighborhoods on a regular basis.

The takeaway

This creative community policing initiative demonstrates how law enforcement can use unconventional methods to build trust and positive relationships with residents, especially younger members of the community.