I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am looking forward to the New Year that is upon us and continuing to work with the members of our community to make Conyers a safe city. 

I would like to take time to thank employees from the Conyers Police Department, the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia State Patrol and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations for taking time out of their busy schedules and giving back to the community through the Shop with a Cop program. This past year, a record 100 children were able to shop for Christmas. The actions of these individuals are to be commended.

This month’s “Ask the Chief” question is: “What is your greatest asset at the Conyers Police Department?” 

I would have to say that the greatest asset we have is our employees. They work hard and strive to do the best job possible. I see the dedication and enthusiasm, and I am proud to be a part of the Conyers Police Department. 

If you have a question for the chief, send an e-mail with the question to police@conyersga.gov. 

This past year, we conducted a citizen satisfaction survey in order to help us become more effective in our efforts to keep our community safer. The results of the survey are in, and we are currently reviewing all comments submitted. The results of this survey are available to the public. A copy of the results may be picked up at our records division located at 1194 Scott Street, Conyers, GA 30012. These results will also be published on the police department website. 

I am pleased to announce that Major Scott Freeman has been chosen to attend training at the FBI National Academy. The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders that serves to improve the administration of justice in agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide. Officers participate in a wide range of leadership and specialized training. They share ideas, techniques, and experiences with each other, creating lifelong partnerships that span state and national lines.

Leaders and managers of state police, local police, sheriffs’ departments, military police organizations, and federal law enforcement agencies are allowed to attend. Participation is by invitation only through a nomination process. Participants are drawn from every state, U.S. territories, and over 150 international partner nations.

 I also want to extend my congratulations and appreciation to Property and Evidence Custodian Billie Powell for 5 years of service to the City of Conyers. 

 Recently, several departmental awards were presented. The recipients were Sergeant Travis Quimby for Community/Civic Service in his work with the Explorers, Officer Scot McGinnis for self-initiated activity resulting in the arrest of a suspect who was continuously committing the same crime, and Officers Kayla Watson and Erich Frechen for saving the life of a young girl. These are accomplishments to be proud of.