INDIO, CA – The Indio Police Department’s assigned-vehicle program, which allows officers who live in the city to take a car home and use it while off duty, is on the brink of extinction, according to The Desert Sun newspaper. But before the program ends, city staffers will examine its benefits and financial impact to see if the price tag is worth it. The analysis could be complete in a few weeks. There are about 105 vehicles in the fleet, and 35 of those are assigned to officers who live within the city limits. A new, fully equipped police vehicle costs $56,000. Residents and city council members say they favor the program because of its perceived effectiveness to deter crime and its importance in recruiting officers.