Eagan Police Department Becomes First in Minnesota to Add Grappler Pursuit-Prevention Device to Police Fleet

Provided by the Eagan Police Department.

Updated: June 20, 2025 at 11:40 AM.

EAGAN, MINNESOTA—The Eagan Police Department has announced the addition of a cutting-edge pursuit intervention tool to its fleet — the Grappler Police Bumper — becoming the first law enforcement agency in Minnesota and one of only a few agencies in the Midwest to have the device.

Designed to stop fleeing vehicles safely, the Grappler works by deploying a strong nylon net from the front of a squad car that ensnares the rear tire of the suspect vehicle. Once the tire is captured, officers can apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a controlled stop. This device can also be used to stop vehicles in cases where the driver may be experiencing a medical emergency.

According to Eagan Police, the goal of the Grappler is to reduce the need for high-speed chases, which pose significant risks to the public, officers, and suspects alike.

“We hope that this will give us one more way to stop a pursuit from occurring or stop one before it goes any further,” the department said in a statement.

The Grappler is designed to be deployed when a suspect vehicle is traveling at speeds of 5 miles per hour or more. Although the Grappler is capable of operating at higher speeds, its use above 75 miles per hour should be approached with caution, considering the full context of the situation. Each Grappler unit, including the net and installation kit, costs approximately $5,000. Replacement nets, which can be installed by officers in under 15 minutes, cost roughly $400.

Unlike other pursuit intervention options, such as Stop Sticks or the PIT (Precision Immobilization Technique) maneuver — both of which have specific situational limitations — the Grappler allows for more controlled and preemptive intervention.

“This is just one more tool on our toolbelt to help stop pursuits or prevent pursuits from happening,” the department stated. “The Grappler provides us with another safe and effective method to apprehend offenders and limit danger to the public.”

The Eagan Police Department plans to begin deploying the Grappler in active patrol soon, integrating it into its broader strategy to enhance public safety through innovative law enforcement technology. Officials have stated that they can also utilize their Grapplers to assist neighboring departments if requested.

Written by: Will Wight



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