Boosting Mental Health Awareness: How the Deputy’s 988 Patrol Vehicle is Making a Difference in Hanson County

ALEXANDRIA, S.D. — Chief Deputy Thomas Brown patrols Hanson County with a powerful message on his squad car. Wrapped in bold graphics featuring the number “988,” the vehicle symbolizes hope and raises awareness about mental health issues.

The idea originated from Hanson County Sheriff Brandon Wingert, who, after reading about mental health, envisioned a police car that would promote awareness. He wanted to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health, similar to themed vehicles promoting other causes like breast cancer or autism. Wingert discussed the idea with Deputy Brown, who found it incredibly personal and meaningful.

Brown’s passion for this cause stems from profound personal loss. In 2017, he received a life-altering call: his son, Thomas Jr., had attempted suicide. After 11 days on life support, the family made the heartbreaking choice to say goodbye. His son’s life ended on September 22, the date now marked with the number “22” on the patrol car, a reminder of the 22 U.S. veterans who tragically take their lives each day.

Tragedy struck again in 2023 when Brown’s second son, Nicholas, was murdered. Nicholas had just begun his journey into law enforcement, a path he hoped to follow in his father’s footsteps. These two losses left Brown searching for support and understanding. He openly encourages others to seek help, stating, “It’s okay not to be okay.”

With renewed purpose, Brown collaborated with a local designer to create a remarkable vehicle wrap that not only displays “988” but also the phrase “There is Hope.” It’s aimed at starting conversations about mental health and inviting those in crisis to reach out for help.

Sheriff Wingert mentioned that this is the first car in Hanson County designed explicitly for mental health awareness. He hopes it encourages the community to talk openly about mental health issues.

Positive feedback has rolled in from the community, with residents calling the initiative “the best money the county has ever spent.” Many have expressed gratitude, saying the vehicle made them feel seen and supported. Some shared testimonials of how simple interactions with Brown offered them relief during tough times.

Brown’s outreach extends beyond the car. He and his wife have distributed over 1,000 tokens, which now feature the 988 number as a reminder that help is always available. He recounts a moving moment where a conversation with a truck driver, who was contemplating suicide, changed his mind thanks to a token Brown shared.

In schools, Brown is initiating a peer-support program called “Hope,” funded by resources from 988. This initiative encourages students to form support committees to discuss challenges like bullying and stress, hoping to prevent crises before they escalate.

So far, Brown’s vehicle is one of a kind in South Dakota, but his efforts may inspire a larger movement. Following his lead, organizations have begun distributing ribbons and decals to law enforcement agencies for mental health advocacy. Brown hopes to change the narrative around seeking help within law enforcement, emphasizing that it’s a strength, not a weakness.

“There’s this fear that if you say something, you’ll lose your job,” he acknowledges. “I want them to know — you won’t. You can get help and still wear the badge.”

For Deputy Brown, every mile driven in his 988-wrapped vehicle serves as a tribute to his sons and a beacon of hope for others. “Even if it just helps one person,” he reflects, “then it’s worth it.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: September is Suicide Prevention Month. If you’re struggling, the 988 hotline offers vital mental health support and suicide crisis services.



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