2013 Community Pride Public Service

Page 1

2013 Community

Pride

Public Service

Keeping all of Bulloch County safe


community pride 2013

2 – Statesboro herald — Sunday, February 24, 2013 | statesboroherald.com

Public Service

SPD helping keep the Boro safe Local police using latest tools to help battle crime From staff reports

The Statesboro Police Department has utilized several programs and software to help make reporting crimes, monitoring crimes in your neighborhood and keeping safe easier. “Crime Reports and TIPSOFT software makes available to community all crime reports and statistics overlaid onto the City of Statesboro map via internet and gives citizens an opportunity to submit anonymous tips,” said Statesboro Public Safety Director Wendell Turner. “It is also used by department for crime analysis and forecast to better focus our resources to combat crime.” The department also uses Nixle Alerts to notify the community of important crime information to solidify community partnership. “The Statesboro Police Department began utilizing social media as a new means to distribute law enforcement information with their Facebook page and Twitter page,” he said. “These have also been essential in receiving crime tips from the public.” Another effort to improve services includes “Successfully cross-training several police officers with the fire department to supplement fire ground operations,” he said. “The

Training Bureau working in conjunction with the fire department was instrumental in obtaining equipment for our new gym, which has been beneficial to all c i t y employees at little to no cost to the tax payers.” In 2012 t h e S t a te s b o ro Police Crime Suppression Unit (CSU) celebrated its fifth anniversary. “ The Cr ime Suppression Unit (CSU) is a specialized unit within the Statesboro Police Department that is housed within in the Investigations Bureau,” Turner said. “The mission of CSU is to reduce drug, gang, firearms and quality of life crimes within the City of Statesboro by conducting overt and covert investigations.” The CSU was formed October of 2007. “Initially three investigators and one supervisor were assigned to this specialized unit,” he said. “Starting in January 2011, the Georgia Southern University Police Department detached one of their investigators to CSU. This made CSU a

multi-agency taskforce.” From October 2007 to July 2012 CSU has investigated over 1,200 cases, removed over 1.5 million dollars of illicit drugs from t h e st reets, seized more t h a n t w o hundred firearms, seized seventy vehicles and seized over $217,000 in cash and property. The Crime Suppression Unit has conducted numerous special operations and assisted several agencies throughout the past five years. “The Crime Suppression Unit has been supervised by Detective Lieutenant Rob Bryan for the past five years and the Statesboro Police Department would like to recognize Lieutenant Bryan for his outstanding leadership which led to the success of this unit,” Turner said. “The Statesboro Police Department would also like to recognize all the investigators who have been and are currently assigned to CSU for their hard work and determination in order to also make this unit successful. “ The Statesboro Police

Department recognized several officers and staff in 2012 for outstanding service. Awards were as follows: ➤ 25 years of service — Lt. Michael Chappel and Sgt. John Allen Smith. ➤ Community Service Awards — Administrative Assistant Tina Childers and Records Clerk Lyn Dedge (for work with Toys for Tots) ➤ Officer of the Year (presented to an officer of the department selected by members of the department who represents the mission and values of the department) — Advanced Patrol Officer Justin Gawthrop. ➤ Supervisor of the Year — Lt. Michael Chappel. ➤ Detective of the Year — Det. Sgt. Patrick Harrelson. ➤ Support Person of the Year — Records Clerk Lyn Dedge. ➤ Rookie of the Year — (officers with more than six months and less than eighteen months in law enforcement with the Statesboro Police Department.) — Officer Jeremy Glisson. ➤ Top Gun — (based on an average of firearms scores during the previous year.) Det. Tommy Brown. ➤ FBI National Academy Ribbon(for graduating from the FBI National Academy in 2012) — Det. Lt. Robert Bryan. ➤ POST Instructor (cer-

tified by Georgia Peace Officer Standards Training as an instructor) — Cpl. Andrew Samples, Advanced Patrol Officer Justin Samples. Det. Sgt. James Winskey. ➤ Motorcycle officers (awarded to an officer that has completed the POST Motor Officer 40 hours course, meets all criteria under Department Policy and is currently assigned approved to operate a department motorcycle.) — Officer Travis Smallegan, Advanced Patrol Officer (APO) Jason Harris, APO Jared Shababy, APO Aaron Conner, APO William Dietz. Also during 2012, Robert Bryan was promoted to Detective Lieutenant over the Investigation Bureau; Patrick Harrelson

912-489-8749

Lee DeLoach, Judge

Michelle Sawyer (Clerk; Petitions, Guardianships, Conservatorships)

Brenda Hendrix (Clerk; Firearms Licenses, Accounting)

Sally Anne Deal Nora M. Laughlin

(Clerk; Marriage Licenses, Petitions, Receptionist)

(Clerk; Petitions, Filing/Recording)

May We Help You... • Administration of Estates of Deceased Persons • Guardianships of Minors and Incapacitated Adults • Commitment Hearings • Hearings on Land Line Disputes

• Records Management • Probable Cause Hearings in Certain Instances • Marriage Licenses • Firearm Licenses

was promoted to Detective Sergeant over the Crime Suppression Unit and Advanced Patrol Officer Justin Samples was assigned as the Community Relations and Public Information Officer.

GSU Public Safety looking after students Department awarded second place in 2012 Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Challenge (Campus Police) From staff reports

Bulloch county ProBate court

Statesboro Public Safety Director Wendell Turner

The Division of Public Safety is made up of three departments: University Police, Cr iminal Investigations, and Environmental Safety. The division is also responsible for the control of traffic on the campus. The Office of Public Safety is located on Forest Drive (at its intersection with Parrish Road) and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in order to provide the safest environment possible. The GSU police force is made up of 40 sworn, statecertified police officers. The GSU police offer a variety of student services, one being a walking escort for any student who feels uncomfortable walking alone. GSU Police Chief Mike Russell says “Our crime statistics indicate that it is extremely safe to walk around campus at night. Most conflicts among students involve persons they know including intimate friends” There are also “Safety Call Boxes” located throughout campus allowing students to be better connected to Public Safety. To report a crime, stop by the Public Safety Building on campus (across from the Wildlife Center on Forest Drive) or call 912478-5234. Copies of reports

can be picked up three business days after you report a crime and sometimes sooner. If it is an emergency, call 911. Police, fire, or EMS will be dispatched.

Information about a crime can also be sent through the “Eagle Eye Witness” link on our webpage and can be done either anonymously or by providing your information. Alcohol violations and theft top the list of GSU’s most reported crimes. Unlocked doors and unattended articles provide opportunities for theft, and most of our thefts are of this variety. In 2012, the GSU Police Department was awarded 2nd place in the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Challenge (Campus Police Category). The department also: participated in a multiagency active shooter training on and off campus and continued to add cameras to the campus surveillance system. In 2012, GSU police investigators handled two reported rape cases, two robberies, 22 simple assault cases, 18 burglary cases, 234 larceny cases and made 292 arrests. Telephone: 912-478-5234. Web: http://welcome.georgiasouthern.edu/publicsafety/.


community pride 2013

statesboroherald.com | Statesboro herald — Sunday, February 24, 2013 – 3

Public Service

BCSO using tech to keep law in Bulloch Nixle alerts, social media being utilized in sheriff's office From staff reports

The Bulloch County Sheriff ’s Office is on the front line when it comes to technology. In 2012, Sheriff Lynn Anderson added a video conferencing system that allows inmates to speak to attorneys and court personnel remotely, without having to leave the facility. This lessens the need for transport officers and further ensures security, he said. Deputies continue using in-car computers “equipped with networking technology and access to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) for better efficiency in dispatching and handling calls,” he said. The department has also implemented a new IAFIS fingerprint system that has led to several arrests, and has upgraded security systems as well. Alerting the public regarding potentially dangerous situations via the Nixle Alert system has also helped keep citizens aware and safe, he said. Keeping citizens informed through a Facebook page has also helped investigators and deputies “to solve multiple cases quickly, with citizen input,” Anderson said. Using Crimereports.com continues to offer citizens a quick view of crimes in their particular neighborhoods, and citizens can send in anonymous crime tips by emailing to tips@bullochsheriff.com, he said. Services to citizens have

Bulloch County Sheriff Lynn Anderson been streamlined as well. It is now easier for the media and other citizens to request open records. Citizens should notice mobile speed detection devices in neighborhoods where traffic complaints have been reported. There have been i n c re a s e d patrols in neighb o r hoods where property crimes h a v e occurred, he said. Deputies often use a Can-Am Spyder motorcycle in patrolling areas so as to have a more visible presence. Deputies and investigators have given presentations to Georgia Southern University students and neighborhood associations on crime prevention, “blanketing student housing areas with flyers on crime prevention before break periods” to

decrease burglaries. The Child ID trailer continues to make appearances at public events and last year additional deputies were certified to conduct the D.A.R.E. (anti-drug) programs in area schools. Deputies also assisted local driving schools with DUI education and the Bulloch County Sheriff ’s Honor Guard appeared in parades and other events. Deputies conducted compliance checks on registered sex offenders, working jointly with other local, state and federal agencies; conducted patrols with Georgia Southern University and Statesboro police to address crimes around campus, and conducted compliSPECIAL ance checks with Bulloch County Sheriff Lynn Anderson, right, stands with Jessica Williams and Mike Wallace probation and of Can-Am Statesboro with the new Can-A, Spyder motorcycle presented to the Sheriff's parole offiDepartment. cers to “disc o u r a g e ing in conjunction with County Sheriff’s Office in worth of stolen property. r e p e a t other agencies; BCSO Crime 2012 include: ➤ Worked with other offenders,” Scene Inv. Bill Black is seek- ➤ 890 firearms applica- agencies in two states to Anderson ing national certification as a tions processed. solve cases where three peos a i d . crime scene technician; 60 ➤ Deputy Rey Rodriguez ple were responsible for Investigators percent of jail staff becoming promoted to corporal and over 200 entering auto incialso worked certified to use a Taser. awarded “Deputy of the dents. with local and Also, to date, 90 percent Year” by the Georgia Sheriff’s ➤ Housed an average of federal agencies to of jail staff is certified Association for “valorous 70 federal inmates at any one address tax fraud through the state, and those actions” during an officer- time throughout the year, schemes. shooting in resulting in about $1 million recently hired will also involved The Bulloch County become certified. Inv. Todd Statesboro. in revenue for the county. Sheriff’s Office maintains a Mashburn Conducted the coordinated ➤ Logging 23,800 calls ➤ steady program of training almost 5,000 hours of train- for service and 4,654 inci- Civilians Firearms Safety to offer citizens the best pro- ing in 2012 for BCSO dent reports filed. Course with 10 classes with tection. In 2012, training employees, Anderson said ➤ Assigned an investiga- approximately 150 citizens included the following: Continued training tor to liaison with metal completing the course. graduated two deputies (Cpl. allowed for 31 deputies to recyclers to combat metal ➤ Deputies served 2,549 Bob Dinello and Deputy Jeff achieve ‘senior deputy” sta- theft and ensure new state subpoenas, 1,254 child supThompson) from an inten- tus as well, he said. port orders, 1,821 civil laws are observed. sive D.A.R.E. course at Ft. Other notable accom- ➤ Worked with pawn papers and 61 temporary Stewart; active shooter train- plishments for the Bulloch shops to recover $28,000 protective orders.

Other agencies working to help keep citizens safe Bulloch County Emergency Medical Service EMS currently operates out of a single station located on West Grady Street next to Statesboro Fire Department Station One. Soon, county officials will be investigating the possibility of a substation for an ambulance and crew at Bulloch County Fire station # 7, located on U.S. 80 in Brooklet. “We are currently working on a design/renovation of Station 7 to accommodate the EMS crew,” said Bulloch County Public Safety Director Ted Wynn. “This will allow for a quicker response to a large portion of the county. As funds are available we will look to substation EMS in other locations based on call data and population density.”

Bulloch County Central 911 In 2012, 911 received a CAD upgrade and began to use reverse 911 as tool to alert public in the event of a disaster or other emergency threatening public safety. Bulloch 911 handles calls for Evans, Candler, and Bulloch Counties. The CAD system tracks and documents all information relative to every 911 call received and stores that information for retrieval is necessary. “With over 60,000 calls received on an annual basis, the CAD system is of great necessity,” Wynn said. “The reverse 911 system allows us to alert the public based on proximity to an emergency of a disaster such as a chemical release

or and escaped prisoner. The system alerts the public with land line phones, but cell phone users can opt in at the county’s website.” 911 will soon oversee the deployment of new digital handheld radios for use by law enforcement, fire, and EMS. In 2007 a grant of 1.2 million was received to allow a 4 channel digital overlay to the existing 7 channel analog system. The county and city recently purchased 340 radios which will allow for digital communications between units and dispatchers. This digital communications is the highest quality audio and allows for clear voice communications in very noisy environments.

Bulloch County Fire Department Bulloch County Fire Chief Christopher Ivey and training officer Ben Tapley have made positive changes in training offered to county fire fighters. “The Bulloch County Fire Department and its volunteers strive to provide the most professional firefighting service to their community,” Wynn said. Currently, members are training to become NPQ 1 firefighters, meaning they will be nationally certified as well as state certified. This certification will exceed the minimum requirements to be a volunteer firefighter. “All fire department officers will be involved in extensive management and leadership courses to provide the guidance needed to take this department into the future,” he said. “Starting in February 2013, we will also be teaching six National Fire Academy classes through the Georgia

Fire Academy.” Hazardous materials training will be expanded as well as working together with the Statesboro Fire Department to improve cooperative efforts on firefighting in our community, he said. The county fire department is made up of eight stations and five substations, and utilizes 101 volunteers to respond to fire emergencies throughout the county. The county fire department has an automatic aid agreement with the city of Statesboro which means the two departments automatically respond to structure fires in each ones respective area of service. The state ISO (insurance service office) completed a study in 2009 and awarded the county’s fire service a public protection classification of 5/9. This was an improvement over the previous classification resulting in insurance premium savings to many Bulloch County residents.

Emergency Management Agency Bulloch County EMA urges all citizens to “Get a kit and make a plan.” Disaster can strike at any moment. “Prepare your business and your home for disasters,” Wynn said. “Local, state, and federal response may be temporarily delayed if the gravity of a disaster in enormous. You need to be prepared to sustain yourself and family for up to 72 hours after a disaster strikes and the kits you prepare should include food, medications, and other necessities your family may need, he said.

17257 HWY 301 NORTH STATESBORO, GA 30458 (912) 764-8888 FAX (912) 764-2917

SHERIFF

LYNN M. ANDERSON

OFFICE OF SHERIFF The Office of Sheriff originated in England well over nine centuries ago. Since the beginning, Sheriffs have been responsible for maintaining law and order and have served as the primary law enforcement officer of the county. As early as the 1700’s, it was a significant honor to be the Sheriff and sometimes the honor proved to be costly. If the people of the county did not pay the full amount of taxes and fines, the Sheriff had to make up the difference from his holdings. Furthermore, the Sheriff was expected to serve as host for judges and other dignitaries, providing lavish entertainment at his own expense. In settling the American colonies, the British brought with them the Office of Sheriff. As the first American counties were established in Virginia in 1634, the elected Sheriff appeared a few years later. As America moved westward, the Office of Sheriff and the concept of the county jail were born. The Sheriff served to protect the public’s peace in lawless territories where the fastest draw and the most accurate shot often controlled the county. Today, the Office of Sheriff is established by the state constitution in most states. Other states have established the office by act of the state legislature. In Georgia, the Sheriff is both a constitutional and a county officer. The constitutionality of the office derives primarily from English Common Law. The status as a county office is drawn from a number of general constitutional provisions relating to the office. It is the responsibility of the Sheriff to maintain peace, protect life, protect property, and provide service to the community. Specific duties of the Office of Sheriff today include: providing law enforcement and traffic safety services, operating the county jail, serving as an officer of the court and serving criminal warrants, subpoenas and civil papers. In Georgia, there are 159 elected Sheriffs. In Bulloch County the first elected Sheriff was Charles McCall, Jr. in 1796. As of the year 2001 there has been a total of 62 elected Sheriffs in Bulloch County.

“The Sheriff shall keep and preserve the peace of his county.” 764-8888 • Fax 764-2917 • Chief Deputy Gene McDaniel


community pride 2013

4 – Statesboro herald — Sunday, February 24, 2013 | statesboroherald.com

Public Service

Fire department honors heroes in 2012 From staff reports

The Statesboro Fire Department strives towards providing excellence in fire protection, and honors its own for training and other achievements. In 2012, the third annual awards banquet saw the following honorees: ➤ Achievement Medal (awarded to a member who has performed in an outstanding manner while accomplishing a task, assignment or goal worthy of recognition. The following were awarded for successful internal project management.) — Cap. Merritt Kearns, Capt. Chris Moore,

Capt. Lee Nessmith, Capt. Chris Whitehead; Capt. Steven Morris, Firefighter Derek Stoddard, Firefighter Brent Connor, Firefighter J a m i e Strosnider a n d Firefighter J a s o n Barrs. ➤ Unit Citation M e d a l s (awarded to any group of two or more fire department members who make up a company, shift, sector, team or member work group that has performed in an outstand-

ing manner worthy of recognition. All the following were awarded for their actions during the rescue of a victim at the Te r e s a ’ s Alteration fire on May 9) — Battalion C h i e f J a s o n Baker, C a p t . C h r i s Wh i te h e a d , Capt. Steven Morris, Firefighter Tim Alderman, Firefighter Brad Bouchillon, Firefighter Andrew Farrar, and Firefighter Lamar Matthews.

Also, Firefighter John Patterson, Firefighter Jamie Strosnider, Firefighter Tyler Thompson, Firefighter Ben Adams and Public Safety Officer Justin Gawthrop. ➤ Medal of Valor (awarded to a member who, under extreme conditions in which life safety is at great risk, performs in an outstanding manner. It is the second highest honor only behind the Medal of Honor bestowed upon a member. These three were the ones that performed the ladder rescue at the Teresa’s Alteration fire.) Capt. Chris Whitehead, Firefighter Lamar Matthews, Firefighter Andrew Farrar. ➤ The Ralph Deal

Training Award (for outstanding training and educational accomplishments) — Firefighter Jason Gammon. ➤ Volunteer of the Year — Bill Taylor. ➤ Firefighter of the Year — Firefighter Lamar Matthews. ➤ Chief Officer of the Year — Division Chief Chris Colson. The Statesboro Fire Department also achieved many improvements in 2012: ➤ The department underwent an ISO review with anticipation of excellence. ➤ A new engine and platform aerial have been ordered and will be put into

service mid-2013. ➤ The department acquired a water tanker for areas that do not have water systems in place. ➤ The department has increased services to three engines and a ladder truck available 24 hours, an improvement over just having two engines previously. ➤ The department also implemented a part-time and police department cross-trained program to help with firefighting services. ➤ Partnered with the MDA for the first annual Firefighter Challenge to help raise money for MDA children and families in the community.

Firefighter Challenge helps raise funds for MDA

O

n Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012, the Statesboro Fire Department sponsored the 2012 Firefighter Challenge at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds. The day of food, fun and family was a local fund-raising effort to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a voluntary health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and community services and far-reaching professional and public health education. The event included three teams, two from the Statesboro Fire Department and one from the Springfield Fire Department, competing to finish a relay of challenges including Rapid Dress, Busted Hose, Hose Obstacle Course, Hose Extension and Advance, and Bucket Brigade.

JAMES W. DEAL

Bulloch County Tax Commissioner 115 North Main Street P.O. Box 245 Statesboro GA 30459 Telephone: 912-764-6285 Fax: 912-489-4108 Office Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday

SCOTT BRYANT/staff

Above, Mattie Lively Elementary School fourth-grader Kyle Hendry gets some first-rate attention from firefighters during the Statesboro Firefighters Challenge at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds. Below, O'Neal Jones of the Springfield Fire Department tosses water on a mini house during the Bucket Brigade event at the challenge.

DEADLINE TO FILE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FOR 2013 IS APRIL 1, 2013. Contact the Bulloch County Tax Assessors office for more information. EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2011 – Both Registration and Title for a newly pur¬chased motor vehicle from a source other than a registered dealer must be applied for at the owner’s County Tag Office no later than seven business days after the Date of Purchase. (O. C. G. A. 40-2-29) This seven day requirement replaces the former thirty day rule. REAL and PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX – You can pay your real, personal property, and mobile home taxes online by going to www.bullochtaxcommissioner. com and clicking “pay taxes online”. A convenience fee of 2.50% is charged by the company (not Bulloch County) that processes online tax payments. All 2012 and prior taxes owed should be paid as soon as possible to avoid tax sale and the filing of a lien (FiFa) which will affect your credit for many years. After March 4, 2013, a one-time 10% penalty will be applied to all 2012 real and personal property tax bills not paid by the due date (12-01-2012). This penalty does not apply to property claiming homestead exemption where tax due is less than $500.00. Interest at the rate of 1% per month or fraction thereof began the day after the due date. VEHICLES – REMEMBER your registration EXPIRES ON YOUR BIRTHDAY for individuals. INSURANCE on your vehicle must be submitted to the state insurance data base by your agent to enable the renewal of your tag/decal. Vehicles covered by a fleet policy are an exception to this rule and your fleet card must be provided. If there is a lapse in your insurance, lapse fees will be placed on the tag system by the state and must be paid timely with cash or certified funds to prevent further fees and possible suspension of your registration. Penalties on regular re¬newals begin the day after your birthday and are by law added automatically by the computer. Businesses renew according to the first letter of the title for their vehicle (A & B in January, C & D in February, etc.) and are due by the last day of your month. Late registrations will by law require that penalties be added. MOBILE HOMES – Purchase your 2013 decal by May 1, 2013 to avoid interest and penalty. Failure to display a current decal can result in a citation and fines through the Magistrate Court. A rural fire fee for 2013 of $53 has been added to all nonhomesteaded mobile home bills in Tax District 2 (Brooklet), Tax District 3 (Portal), Tax District 4 (Unincorporated County), and Tax District 5 (Register). Our goal is to assist the taxpayers and citizens of Bulloch County with services rendered by our office in an efficient and professional manner while being governed by many laws, rules, and regulations. PLEASE CALL US WITH YOUR NEEDS AND QUESTIONS. Our website www.bullochtaxcommissioner.com pro¬vides information regarding taxes, exemptions, vehicle registrations, etc.

Town of BrookleT CiTy Hall would like to recognize it’s Public Service Representatives.

CiTy Hall PuBliC works PoliCe DeParTmenT mayor & CiTy CounCil rePresenTaTives Planning & Zoning Commission


community pride 2013

statesboroherald.com | Statesboro herald — Sunday, February 24, 2013 – 5

Public Service

Preparing for danger

SCOTT BRYANT/staff

Georgia Southern University Police officer Scott Sanford, left, takes the point as they sweep hallways and classroom of the Newton Building in simulated search for a gunman as local law enforcement teams up for an active shooter training exercise on campus in March.

Local law enforcement officers get active shooter training By HOLLI DEAL BRAGG hbragg@statesboroherald.com

Bullets flew in March of 2012 as law enforcement officers took part in a simulated active shooter training exercise in a vacant elementary school building. They were “simunition” instead of real ammunition, and as they struck targets, the waxy rounds left blue or orange marks to show where an actual bullet would have drawn blood. Georgia Southern University and Statesboro Police joined in the exercises, along with Bulloch County Sheriff ’s deputies and agents from the Atlanta FBI to conduct active shooter training. Reenactments of dangerous situations help officers learn to respond safely, said Statesboro Public Safety Director Wendell Turner. During these exercises, offiSCOTT BRYANT/staff cers will be training on how A unit made up of Statesboro and Georgia Southern to respond and react to an University police officers make their approach after a mock active shooter on campus. Using guns modified to alert during the active shooter training exercise on campus fire the simunition but that in March.

Serving God's lesser creatures Bulloch County Humane Enforcement and the Bulloch County Animal Shelter work hand in hand to ensure animals are treated humanely and citizens are protected against aggressive and nuisance animals. Citizens bring in unwanted dogs and cats. Humane officers enforce local ordinances and animal laws, ensure animals are treated humanely, and collect stray dogs and cats, including those sick or injured running at large.

Bulloch County Animal Shelter Shelter manager Wendy Ivey oversees day to day operations of the shelter located on Mill Creek Road. She handles complaint calls and dispatches humane officers as well as oversees duties of two full time shelter attendants who help care for the dogs and cats in the shelter. The Animal Shelter staff care for a average of 150 dogs and on a daily basis. The buildings contain 42 canine isolation/holding kennels, 24

canine adoption holding kennels , 30 feline adoption kennels and 24 feline isolation/ holding kennels. The shelter primarily assists with canine and feline holding, but all types of animals in need of assistants or replacing are welcomed, none are turned away. “This also includes livestock and wildlife,” Ivey said. “We are equipped to handle different types of animals.” The facility has rooms for food preparation, laundry and veterinary and other needs. The shelter staff handles adoptions, public intake of stray and personal animals, lost/ return to owner cases and any animal cases pending court action, as well as dispatching animal control complaints. The shelter is open to the public on Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 10am-5pm and Tuesday & Friday 12pm-5pm.

Humane Enforcement Humane Enforcement Supervisor Joey Sanders oversees two other humane officers who answer calls ranging from stray cats leaving footprints on

vehicles to vicious dogs threatening people in their own homes. They also respond to calls about snakes in homes, injured wildlife, and both pets and livestock that are being neglected, abandoned or abused. Humane officers make sure animals in the county are treated humanely while keeping nuisance animals from causing problems and putting citizens in danger. Humane Enforcement handles a average of 200 calls/ complaints per month, enforcing the animal laws and county ordinances to help ensure the safety of the public and well being of the animals in our county. They handle all types of animal control complaints within our county, while assisting with the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources when needed. Humane Enforcement is available Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on call after 5 p.m. on week days and weekends for emergency calls only.

could not fire real ammunition, officers took turns Tuesday at the old Sallie Zetterower elementary school building on Brannen Street, focusing on different scenarios in a variety of locations throughout the school. As he showed someone the simunition rounds and guns, Statesboro Police Lt. Kaleb Moore talked about the exercises. “This is the closest training that you can possibly get without it being the real thing,” he said. Before actually performing the exercises, groups of officers, deputies and agents conducted “dry runs,” walking through the scenario in anticipation of the real moves. In the scenarios, officers were faced with “known shooter locations and unknown shooter locations,” said GSU Police Chief Mike Russell. Observers wore safety glasses and orange mesh vests as they watched the scenarios unfold. In one hallway, officers entered the building knowing the “shooter” was in the counselor’s office. Some

covered others as they stepped quietly down the hall and approached the office. Guns drawn, officers checked every room they passed even though they knew where the shooter was located. Officers ordered the suspect to stop, which he apparently did not do, and shots were fired before taking him into custody during the simulated exercise. In the second scenario, officers did not know where the shooter was hiding. Again, they entered the hallway quietly, clearing each room, and then the “shooter” stuck his head out from a classroom. Shots were fired immediately, spent rounds peppering the hallway. The shooter poked his head out of the doorway once again and disappeared. “He’s reloading,” someone called. Then, as the officers approached the classroom where the suspect was, someone ordered him to “Drop your weapon! Let me see your hands!” As the exercises unfolded, the real smell of gunpowder filled the air of the vacant school’s hallway. Officers

moved in shadows as there was no lighting in the wing where they worked. After each scenario, training agents discussed the action and gave suggestions about improved reactions, what officers did right and what could happen if the exercise was a real-life dangerous situation. In the third scenario in one wing, there were two shooters in separate rooms. As officers once more reenacted the scene, someone called “He’s down in that room!” In another room, an officer ordered the suspect “let me see your hands!” The shooter replied “Eat it” and was promptly “shot” and captured. GSU spokesperson Connie Palfy said all activities will be conducted inside. Russell said officers will be reenacting dangerous situations around the Newton and College of Education classroom buildings, as well as Paulson Stadium through Thursday. “The areas being used will be closed off and marked,” Palfy said. Holli Deal Bragg maybe reached at (912) 489-9414.

SRSAC is a non -profit organization that provides emotional support and advocacy for individuals who have been sexually assaulted.

CrisisÊLineÊ1-866-489-2225Ê


community pride 2013

6 – Statesboro herald — Sunday, February 24, 2013 | statesboroherald.com

Public Service

BCSO captain teaches Krav Maga techniques Local Safe Haven clients learn Israeli method of self-defense By HOLLI DEAL BRAGG hbragg@statesboroherald.com

Vicious? Maybe, but Krav Maga is exactly what domestic violence victims need, said instructor Todd Mashburn. The Bulloch County Sheriff ’s captain spent a night teaching women and teens how to defend themselves using the Israeli military system that is a “combination of street fighting and self defense,” he said. Clients of Safe Haven, a local domestic violence shelter, enjoy outings every month hosted by the Statesboro Service League. The class, taught by Mashburn and his wife Skye, also a Krav Maga instructor, was held at the Averitt Center for the Arts. Before long, Mashburn had the women at ease, trying out moves. When he encouraged them to tap into their inner aggression, they kicked, struck out and even roared. “Krav Maga is very simple, easy to learn and remember,” he said. “It is designed to work off the body’s natural instinct, trying to capitalize on (reactive movements) instead of strength.” Mashburn was very clear at the beginning that this was no sissy class. “It’s up front, in your face, gouging their eyes out,” he said. “It is controlled

aggression I am looking for.” He and his wife showed the ladies (and a couple teenage boys) how to throw an effective punch, using body weight and leverage to create power. “This is the bullet,“ he said, showing his fist, and “this is the gun,” motioning towards the torso. Each time Skye Mashburn struck a training pad in demonstration, the audible hiss as she expelled her breath shot through the room. “When you expel that air, it expounds the force of your punch,” Todd Mashburn said. The art of Krav Maga isn’t about skill or style, it’s about pure defensive reaction. “I don’t sugarcoat it, I tell it like I see it,” he said. Then he talked about the well-known defensive move he called the “great equalizer.” Women are usually weaker in strength than men, but one move is sure to bring an attacker to his knees. “When you start

taking his manhood and shoving it somewhere near his larynx, it won’t matter how big he is.” He told the women to remember, when they are in danger, there are no holds barred. “You are willing to end it, whatever it takes,” he said. “Your goal is to take him off this planet.” Laurie Bradford, Safe Haven counselor, said the clients requested the course. “We’re finding the world is getting meaner, and they’re vulnerable anyway.” Lue Ann Roberson said the class empowered her. She didn’t feel confident enough to defend herself before, she said. Being a victim makes you “ feel worthless, helpless.” Mashburn teaches Krav Maga to the public and said anyone can take the course, regardless of age or athletic ability. While he works full time with the Bulloch County Sheriff ’s Department, he said Sheriff Lynn Anderson is “very supportive of me doing this. He likes for us to be part of community outreach,” such as the free class he gave to the Safe Haven clients. Mashburn can be contacted at (912) 764-5425 or toddm@fittofightprograms.com. Holli Deal Bragg may be reached at (912) 489-9414.

Clerk of Court Teresa P. Tucker, Clerk

SCOTT BRYANT/staff

Above, Capt. Todd Mashburn of the Bulloch County Sheriff's Department and wife Skye conduct a self-defense class for women in the local Safe Haven program at the Averitt Center for the Arts in 2012. Below, Skye Mashburn, far left, looks in as Lue Ann Roberson practices some self-defense techniques learned during the class for women in the in the local Safe Haven program at the Averitt Center for the Arts.

Bulloch county Magistrate court

Hours: Monday-Friday • 8am-5pm (912) 764-9009 During the election it was brought to my attention that the majority of the citizens in Bulloch County do not realize exactly what the Clerk of Court’s responsibilities are. So, I’d like to take this opportunity to explain what our duties are. We are considered record keepers. Real Estate Transactions: We are responsible for recording any transactions that involves real estate whether it be the Warranty Deed when you purchased your house, the plat of your land, liens filed against your property and sadly even foreclosures. When documents are filed from the attorneys office, it is very important that these documents are filed in the correct order as this will affect the chain of title to your property. Once these documents are recorded, we then share the information with the Tax Accessors office who determines who is billed for the taxes on the property. There are transfer taxes paid on exchanges of property and intangible taxes paid on security deeds which then has to be disbursed to various different entities. Civil Lawsuits and Divorces: All civil suits where someone is being sued for something is filed in our office. This may be anything from a credit card debt to all of the suits that have been filed associated with the King Finishing river spill. We also file all divorce, child support, change of custody and contempt cases. Once these cases are filed, the defendant is then served with the papers by the local Sheriff Dept. and has a certain amount of days to file an answer. We are responsible for setting hearings with the appropriate Judge to give the defendant an opportunity to have a hearing if needed. Felony & Misdemeanor Cases: All felony and misdemeanor cases are filed in our office. If a defendant is charged with a misdemeanor the case is filed with us and then the defendant has to appear before the State Court Judge to answer to the charges. We then have to record the outcome of the case and report to the

appropriate agencies, whether it be DDS for a driving record or GCIC for their criminal history. Felony cases take a little more time to process. They are first presented to a Grand Jury to be indicted and then have to go thru various stages before the defendant actually is sentenced. If a defendant enters a not guilty plea, a jury is selected to try the case and determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant. Once these are sentenced the sentence again has to be reported to the appropriate agency. Discharge Records: We record discharge records of anyone discharged from the military. Adoptions: All adoptions that take place in Bulloch County are recorded here. Once the adoption is finalized, we send the information to Vital Records in Atlanta so that the birth certificate can be changed to reflect the new adoptive name. These records are kept sealed from the public and no one is allowed to get information from these unless approved by the Judge. Jury: We are responsible for keeping a jury list of all eligible jurors in Bulloch County. In the past, only a certain percentage of names were used. However, with recent law changes anyone who is a Bulloch County registered voter or holds a drivers license, is eligible to be selected as a juror. We are responsible for notifying the jurors of jury selection, removing names of deceased, and updating change of addresses. Passports: We are certified passport acceptance agents. If you need to apply for a passport, we process the application with all of the appropriate documents and forward it to the National Passport Agency who issues the passport. Everything that is recorded in our office is open to the public except for juvenile records and adoptions. If we can ever be of any assistance to you, please feel free to contact our office at 764-9009 or I can be reached at Teresa.tucker@gsccca.org .

Deputy Clerk Lynn Sapp, Clerk of Court Brenda Cross, Chief Magistrate June B. Braswell, File Clerk Kortney Messer and Deputy Clerk Becky Hart

Deputy Clerk Linda Jones, Magistrate Karen Jones, Deputy Clerk Maria Mock and Deputy Clerk Melody Grant. Not pictured Brittany Dyches

Constables Guy Sharp and Ricky Stringer

we are here to serve you.

Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 101 Oak Street, P.O. Box 1004, Statesboro, GA 30459 912-764-6458 • Fax: 912-489-6731


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.