The Conyers Police Department recently arrested Edward James Beadles, 25, of 4205 Wingfoot Court, Decatur, who was responsible for a string of entered autos at Conyers hotels and industrial parks. Beadles was targeting Ford F-150s, F-250s and Excursions. Beadles was using a tan Ford Taurus to drive to Conyers and surveillance cameras in the area provided us with a vehicle description. Officer Paul Bernichon collected a fingerprint from one of the entered autos that gave us a name. Once the name and vehicle were connected, we were able to focus our attention on Beadles to build a case. I want to express my thanks to all the officers involved in this arrest for the excellent police work that was done in apprehending this suspect.

Conyers Police Department Explorer Post 2222 participated in a competition in Alabama from Feb. 16-17 where they brought home many awards. Team A was awarded first place in crime scene investigation and second place in crisis/hostage negotiation. Team B was awarded first place in arrest and search warrant and third place in bomb threat response. I am especially proud of this group of individuals who are starting in their career fields at such a young age and doing such a great job with the information they are taught from full-time personnel. They will definitely be the leaders in our community in the future.

The Conyers Police Department held a gun safety class on Feb. 28. Eighty-eight residents were in attendance to learn about gun safety and personal protection. The departmental training officer, Sergeant Jay Archer, conducted the training. The class was scheduled to be one hour but lasted almost two hours due to the questions and comments that were raised. We are scheduled to partner with the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office today, April 13 for their gun safety class.

The Conyers Police Department Citizens Police Academy spring 2013 class began on March 12. There are 14 participants who will meet weekly for 12 weeks to learn about the operations of the police department. They will investigate a mock crime scene, tour the jail and spend a day at the firing range with certified firearm instructors. This is a very important program that allows our citizens to see into the daily lives of police officers and the operations of a police department. We have had a great deal of success with the Citizens Academy. Many alumni have gone on to join our volunteer program which shows what kind of impact these classes make on our citizens.

We recently conducted a citizen satisfaction survey in order to help us become more effective in our efforts to keep our community safer and in responding to the needs of the community. The results of the survey are in, and we are currently reviewing all comments submitted. The results of this survey will be made available to the public at the beginning of May.

I want to extend my congratulations and appreciation to Crime Scene Investigator Vance Strawn for 10 years of service to the City of Conyers.