The State Squeal of Vermont

The Vermont State Police recently discovered that the decals on the sides of its patrol cars had been subtly altered by the addition of a pig-shaped splotch on the cow in the state seal. Pig, the Associated Press reports, is "a derogatory term for police." The 16-inch decals were first produced two years ago by inmates at the state prison in Windsor, and about 60 are in circulation. "While some may find humor in the decal modifications," state police Maj. Bill Sheets said yesterday, "the joke unfortunately comes at the expense of the taxpayers." A.P. says replacing the decals will cost $780, which "will be be covered by a surplus in the revolving fund that supports the offender work program." That's just one-tenth of a cent per Vermonter. Where can you get a better entertainment value?

[Thanks to Mike Spinney for the tip.]