Jamestown, ND (KCSi-T.V. News Aug 31, 2012) — Jamestown, and Stutsman County Authorities now have the R.O.V. (Remote Operated Vehicle) ready to assist in underwater searches.

On Friday’s (Aug 31, 2012) Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable 2, our guests were Jamestown City Fire Chief, Jim Reuter, Stutsman County Sheriff, Chad Kaiser, and R.O. V. trainer, Tom Crossmon, of Duluth, Minnesota.

Crossmon is a Captain for the St. Louis County, Minnesota, Rescue, and trains for VideoRay, the company from which the local R.O.V. unit was purchased.

Reuther said Crossmon conducted R.O.V. training of local authorities the week of August 27, 2012, including the Stutsman County Dive Team, which now has increased membership to 15, and is comprised of members of the fire department and local law enforcement.

Reuther says, the training at Pipestem Reservoir led to finding a submerged car, that was underwater the past 30 years stemming from an accident.

He said that vehicle was found partially in the silt at the bottom of the reservoir.

It’s not known if or when the vehicle will be raised.

Stutsman County Sheriff, Chad Kaiser agreed with Reuther that the R.O.V. will be instrumental in underwater searches, including law enforcement looking for crime evidence.

He said Stutsman County Special Deputies have been and will be included in searches.

Trainer Tom Crossmon added, that items as small as handguns have been located by the R.O.V.

Crossmon trains using the R.O.V. use for companies, such as VideoRay.

Jamestown purchased the new R.O.V. for $86,000, with approval from the City of Jamestown.

He reminded viewers that a successful fund drive was accomplished toward the purchase of the unit, with Jamestown area residents contributing $27,000 and after expenses, $24,606.

A donation was also received from an individual in Montana.

The balance of the purchase price was picked up through grants, and North Dakota Emergency Services.

The fundraising effort was started by LeAnn Buckley, whose loved one, Darrin Ackerman lost his life, at Jamestown Reservoir late last year, when he fell through the ice.

She was hopeful of obtaining an R.O.V. which was used in the search for Darrin, so that other families would not have the long wait in recovering an individual involved in an underwater accident.

Reuther pointed out that the R.O.V. may be used outside of Stutsman County, with city approval.

All  were impressed by the local fundraising effort, and the dollars raised toward purchasing the local unit.

The R.O.V. based in Jamestown is one of two in North Dakota, the other located in Fargo, with Valley Water Rescue.

Reuther said local authorities have another new piece of equipment for underwater searches, which is able to be deployed from a boat.