Calhoun County – Local law enforcement agencies gathered yesterday, May 30th, at the CMP in Anniston for an annual event aimed at providing updates on their departments’ progress, challenges, programs, and achievements. The event offered an opportunity for police chiefs and sheriffs from the region to address the community directly, highlighting the ongoing efforts and initiatives undertaken by their respective agencies. With a focus on transparency and community engagement, the gathering aimed to foster greater understanding and collaboration between law enforcement and the public they serve.
District Attorney Lynn Hammond, who has served in her capacity since September, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Calhoun and Cleburne County. She emphasized the critical role of local law enforcement, stating that she couldn’t fulfill her duties without their support and dedication. Hammond commended the law enforcement agencies in both counties for their outstanding work, noting that they do an excellent job in maintaining safety and order.
Regarding recent developments in her office, Hammond mentioned that they have been actively trying various cases, with approximately six trials held since the beginning of the year. She provided an example of a recent trial where a woman was sentenced to 45 years for the homicide of her husband, highlighting it as an extreme case of domestic violence. Hammond also alluded to an upcoming trial in August, describing it as significant due to its involvement of local law enforcement and the community.
Hammond assured the community of her accessibility, stating that she is always available to meet or speak with anyone who may need assistance or have questions. She reiterated her commitment to serving both law enforcement and citizens, aiming to fulfill her duties to the best of her ability.
With a career spanning 30 years in the District Attorney’s office, Hammond expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has had to serve in various capacities, starting as an assistant DA under Joe Hubbard and later as the chief assistant under Brian McVeigh. She concluded her remarks by thanking everyone for their time and attention, emphasizing her dedication to her role and the communities she serves.
Sheriff Matthew Wade commenced his address at the gathering hosted by the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce by extending his gratitude for the opportunity to speak, specifically thanking the CMP for hosting the event. He warmly acknowledged the district attorney, Lynn Hammond, referring to her affectionately as “the hammer” for her reputation of firmness and effectiveness in her role. Sheriff Wade praised Hammond’s dedication to justice and emphasized the importance of their close collaboration in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
Transitioning to matters concerning law enforcement facilities, Sheriff Wade provided detailed insights into ongoing renovations at the county jail. He highlighted the significance of modernizing the jail to meet current needs, particularly focusing on areas such as mental health support and inmate classification. The sheriff explained how outdated infrastructure, such as the booking area, posed challenges in providing adequate care and safety for inmates. He underscored the importance of the renovations in addressing these issues and improving overall conditions within the facility.
In discussing recent technological advancements, Sheriff Wade emphasized the value of License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras in enhancing law enforcement capabilities. He shared examples of how these cameras had been instrumental in solving cases and improving public safety across the county. Additionally, he mentioned upcoming projects, including the construction of a medical wing at the jail, aimed at providing better healthcare services to inmates and addressing their medical needs more effectively.
Sheriff Wade underscored the importance of partnerships in law enforcement efforts, acknowledging collaborations with various organizations and local law enforcement agencies. He specifically praised the Chamber of Commerce and Jacksonville State University for their partnership in offering tuition discounts to employees, highlighting the significance of education and opportunities for personal and professional growth within the sheriff’s office.
In a notable segment of his speech, Sheriff Wade passionately discussed the CREATE program in Oxford. He described the program as a transformative initiative aimed at providing opportunities for youth to explore diverse career paths and avoid involvement in the criminal justice system. Wade emphasized the program’s potential to empower young people and build a brighter future for the community. Drawing from personal experience, he shared how he wished such a program had existed when he was a young man, underscoring his belief in the program’s ability to positively impact the lives of local youth.
In conclusion, Sheriff Wade reiterated his unwavering commitment to serving the citizens of Calhoun County and emphasized the importance of continued communication and collaboration within the community. He pledged to remain accessible and responsive to the needs of the community, reaffirming his dedication to upholding safety and justice for all.
Chief Bill Partridge of the Oxford Police Department expressed gratitude for Senator Kelly’s presence and discussed the challenges faced by law enforcement during the recent legislative session. Despite the session’s limitations, Chief Partridge acknowledged Senator Kelly’s efforts to support law enforcement. However, he stressed the importance of legislation that streamlines law enforcement operations rather than imposing unnecessary obstacles.
Moving on to departmental initiatives, Chief Partridge unveiled plans to launch a new mobile app designed to foster enhanced communication between the community and law enforcement. The app, compatible with both Apple and Android devices, will empower users to submit tips, request assistance, and receive updates from the police department. This innovative tool aims to facilitate transparent and efficient communication, enabling residents to play an active role in community safety.
In addition to the forthcoming mobile app, Chief Partridge emphasized the Oxford Police Department’s commitment to utilizing various social media platforms to engage with residents and disseminate important information. By leveraging digital channels effectively, the department seeks to enhance public awareness and collaboration in addressing community safety concerns.
In his capacity as the chairman of the legislative committee for the Chiefs associations, Chief Partridge highlighted the importance of advocating for legislation that simplifies law enforcement operations rather than introducing additional hurdles. He emphasized the necessity of creating an environment conducive to law enforcement’s ability to protect citizens effectively without unnecessary constraints. This advocacy reflects a broader commitment within the law enforcement community to ensure that legislative decisions support their mission of maintaining public safety.
Expressing gratitude to Senator Britt for support in securing federal funding for the NIBIN program, Chief Partridge emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing crime at both local and national levels. He reiterated the department’s commitment to leveraging technology and partnerships to combat crime effectively, while also emphasizing the significance of proactive measures to address emerging challenges, such as illegal immigration. Furthermore, Chief Partridge underscored the significance of fostering positive relationships between law enforcement agencies and legislators to address legislative challenges effectively. He commended Senator Kelly and Representative Wood for their efforts to support law enforcement during the session and extended appreciation to other legislative partners who collaborated on behalf of law enforcement interests.
Looking ahead, Chief Partridge announced plans to enhance the department’s crime-solving capabilities through the integration of the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) into the East Metro Area Crime Center. This cutting-edge technology will enable law enforcement to analyze ballistic evidence, such as shell casings, and link firearms used in local crimes to broader criminal networks across the country. Chief Partridge shared a past success story involving the recovery of a weapon linked to a homicide case in another state, highlighting the potential of NIBIN to expedite investigations and prevent violent crimes.
In conclusion, Chief Partridge reaffirmed the Oxford Police Department’s dedication to serving the community and reiterated their readiness to assist residents whenever needed. He emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and collaboration between law enforcement and the public, underscoring the department’s ongoing efforts to enhance community safety and well-being.
Chief Nick Bowles of the Anniston Police Department began his address by expressing gratitude for the presence of those in attendance and echoed sentiments shared by previous speakers. Reflecting on his career trajectory, Chief Bowles acknowledged the individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping his journey, including District Attorney Hammond, who he encountered during his time on the grand jury in Cleburne County before even becoming a police officer. He humorously recounted his hiring process, attributing his recruitment to Lieutenant Davis, jokingly placing any blame for his current position squarely on her shoulders.
Transitioning to current challenges, Chief Bowles addressed the pressing issue of recruiting and retention within the Anniston Police Department. Acknowledging the nationwide shortage of law enforcement officers, he highlighted the department’s struggle to attract and retain personnel, currently experiencing a shortage of approximately 13 to 14 officers in a nine-man department. Despite this shortfall, Chief Bowles emphasized the department’s unwavering commitment to maintaining service levels and ensuring officer safety. He stressed the importance of prioritizing officer well-being and safety above all else, urging officers to approach each call with caution and not to compromise their safety under any circumstances.
Chief Bowles discussed ongoing efforts to make law enforcement careers more attractive to potential recruits, particularly young individuals who may face societal pressures or misconceptions about the profession. He highlighted the department’s Youth Empowerment System (YES) program, designed to provide young participants with insights into law enforcement careers and familiarize them with the demands and expectations of the job. By engaging with youth early on and offering educational opportunities, the department aims to cultivate interest and prepare future generations for careers in law enforcement.
Further emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Chief Bowles underscored the critical role partnerships play in modern law enforcement. He highlighted collaborative initiatives with various agencies, including the Department of Human Services (DHS), Mobile Command Unit (MCU), and the juvenile court system, to address juvenile firearms cases and combat gang-related violence effectively. Additionally, Chief Bowles praised the department’s partnership with federal agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in targeting adult offenders involved in firearms and narcotics-related crimes.
In closing, Chief Bowles reiterated his commitment to supporting the community and encouraged individuals to reach out to him with any needs or concerns. He affirmed his dedication to serving the community and expressed readiness to assist in any way possible, underscoring the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and address the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement agencies.
Chief Marcus Wood of the Jacksonville Police Department expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for the opportunity to discuss their agency’s initiatives and accomplishments. He began by acknowledging the pivotal support of various stakeholders, starting with the mayor and council, whose unwavering backing has propelled the department’s progress. Chief Wood emphasized the significance of this support not only in words but also in financial commitments, particularly highlighting the recent decision to raise the starting pay for officers by more than 15%. This increase aims to attract and retain high-quality personnel crucial for maintaining public safety in a rapidly growing city like Jacksonville.
Highlighting the city’s exponential growth, Chief Wood stressed the importance of providing top-notch services to new residents and businesses. He commended the city council’s proactive stance in ensuring that first responders, including the police department, are adequately equipped and staffed to meet the burgeoning demands of the community. This commitment is exemplified by the creation of the first Special Response Team in 2023, comprising a well-trained and well-equipped group of officers and tactical medics from the fire department. Chief Wood emphasized the council’s investment in cutting-edge equipment to ensure the team’s effectiveness in responding to various critical incidents that may arise.
In addition to these strategic endeavors, Chief Wood underscored the department’s commitment to community engagement and recreational activities. He elaborated on the successful inaugural Police and Me Fishing Rodeo, held at a pond adjacent to the police department. This event not only provided families and children with a safe and enjoyable recreational opportunity but also facilitated positive interactions between law enforcement officers and the community they serve.
Concluding his address, Chief Wood reiterated Jacksonville’s dedication to progress and invited individuals to experience the city’s growth firsthand. He extended a warm invitation to the upcoming Water Berks opening on June 7th, inviting visitors to explore Jacksonville’s attractions and witness the commitment of its law enforcement agency to ensuring a safe and vibrant environment for all residents, students, and visitors.
Chief Michael Barton of the Jacksonville State University Police Department commenced his address by acknowledging the university’s significant growth and bustling atmosphere, underscored by record enrollments and extensive capital projects. He highlighted the university’s achievements in athletics, such as the recent national championship won by the bowling team, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of the institution.
Chief Barton emphasized the pivotal role of partnerships in enhancing public safety, expressing appreciation for collaborations with various entities, including local law enforcement agencies, emergency management, and federal authorities. Notably, he highlighted the partnership between the Chamber and the university, which offers Chamber members a 20% tuition discount, exemplifying the commitment to educational opportunities and community engagement.
Turning inward, Chief Barton outlined the department’s strategic initiatives, including organizational restructuring to enhance responsiveness and focus. The department’s mission now revolves around readiness, response, and recovery, with dedicated resources allocated to each area. Furthermore, he discussed efforts to address pedestrian safety challenges posed by the university’s proximity to state highways, emphasizing collaborative measures with city authorities and transportation agencies to improve infrastructure and safety measures.
In terms of personnel, Chief Barton announced plans for a substantial pay increase for officers, underscoring the university’s commitment to investing in its workforce. Additionally, he highlighted upcoming technology upgrades funded through federal grants, aimed at bolstering surveillance capabilities through the installation of additional cameras in public areas.
In closing, Chief Barton expressed gratitude for the support shown by the community and reiterated the department’s dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the university’s students, staff, and visitors. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration and innovation in addressing evolving public safety challenges and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to excellence in service delivery.
Chief Nathan Johnson of the Piedmont Police Department began his address by expressing his commitment to community policing and highlighting the collaborative efforts of his department in aligning with the community’s needs and values. He emphasized the importance of listening to community feedback and implementing strategies that resonate with the residents of Piedmont.
Chief Johnson provided updates on recent initiatives, including securing a grant to support a bike patrol unit within the department. Despite being in a small town with limited resources, he emphasized the significance of bike patrols in fostering closer connections between officers and the community, particularly given the high pedestrian and cyclist activity in Piedmont.
In discussing relationships, Chief Johnson underscored the strong partnerships among law enforcement agencies in Calhoun County, emphasizing the mutual support and collaboration among agencies in times of crisis. He highlighted the collective approach taken by law enforcement agencies in the county, where resources and expertise are shared to address challenges effectively.
Chief Johnson shared examples of community engagement efforts undertaken by his department, such as sponsoring a baseball team and having officers coach young children. He emphasized the importance of building positive relationships with community members beyond law enforcement duties, fostering trust and rapport.
Chief Johnson expressed pride in the level of community involvement with the Piedmont Police Department, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the relationship between law enforcement and the community. He thanked the commission for the opportunity to address the gathering and acknowledged the active engagement of Senator Keith Kelley, appreciating his commitment to the area and his willingness to collaborate with local law enforcement agencies.
In conclusion, Chief Johnson reiterated his availability to the community and encouraged individuals to reach out to the Piedmont Police Department for any assistance or concerns.
As the event drew to a close, attendees left with a deeper understanding of the efforts, challenges, and achievements of their local law enforcement agencies. The commitment and dedication showcased by the police chiefs and sheriffs underscored their unwavering commitment to serving and protecting their communities. With ongoing collaboration, innovative programs, and a shared commitment to public safety, these agencies continue to strive towards creating safer and more secure environments for all residents.
