If you see something, say something
Features Columnist
May is an incredibly busy time of year. One out of 10 weddings occurs in May, with an average guest list of 178 people.
Spring’s time for bikes — and safety
Sheriff's column
As sheriff, I am deeply concerned with the safety of all citizens. One area of specific concern is the safety of those citizens who ride bicycles on the public roadways in Dougherty County.
Raffles more than buying a dollar ticket
The Sheriff Speaks column
Under Georgia law O.C.G.A.15-16-1, the sheriff is assigned four specific duties. They are to (1) maintain peace, (2) protect life, (3) protect property, and (4) provide services to the community.
Remember to give thanks each day
With another Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror and the Christmas season upon us, I want to take time to give thanks and reflect on this past year.
Practice precaution during the holidays
The holiday season is upon us. Unfortunately, many holiday shoppers may fall prey to unscrupulous criminals who hang out in mall and shopping center parking lots, doing their “shopping” from the packages placed in parked vehicles.
Seniors can take steps to avoid victimization
Criminals never seem to sleep or take time off, especially those who target our senior citizens.
Education keeps lives on positive track
This month marks the beginning of another school year. For educators, it is the opportunity to set the tone for the entire year. For parents, it is the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to their child’s education. For students, it is the chance for a fresh start. August is a foundational month.
New Georgia laws take effect this week
Sunday was the beginning of the first full month of summer. For old music fans, it is the date that the Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” went No. 1 (1967).
College years are what the student makes them
Last year around this time, I wrote an article entitled “Advice for Freshmen,” in which I tried to give those students going off to their first year of college some practical advice.
Traffic stops aid in removing criminals from our streets
As the Sheriff of Dougherty County, and as a 30-year veteran of law enforcement, I feel a certain anxiety every time I see a law enforcement officer conducting a traffic stop.
March against violence set for April 21
Stop the Violence, T.A.K.I.N.G. A.U.T.H.O.R.I.T.Y. will conduct a crime awareness march in downtown Albany at 10 a.m. April 21.
Highlights of the new immigration law
Of all the new laws that went into effect last year, none have received more attention and scrutiny than House Bill (HB) 87, the new “Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act.”
TASERs, stun guns are self defense options
As the Sheriff of Dougherty County I have the opportunity to speak to many civic groups and organizations throughout our community.
What are you thankful for?
As I took time to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with my family and relatives, we discussed what we were most grateful for. I do not know about you, but sometimes I forget just how fortunate or blessed that I am, and more times than not, I take things for granted. As sheriff of Dougherty County, I have the opportunity to speak and spend time with many individuals from all walks of life.
A buddy is more than just a friend to hang out with
I am concerned about those young men and women who are beginning their college career. According to a UCLA student survey, 30% of new freshmen feel overwhelmed. It's no wonder, since the transition from high school to college is probably the single most significant change in their young lives. Here is some advice that can make the transition easier:
Sheriffs' association a valuable asset
As sheriff of Dougherty County, I would like to discuss an issue very close to each of us -- crime prevention. My office is committed to making our neighborhoods safer places to live. By doing so, we will improve the quality of life for individuals and families; both young and old. It is imperative that we seek progress to reduce the negative influences that crime has on our children and to help safeguard the elderly.
Sheriff's Office had a busy 2010
I wanted to take this opportunity to share the accomplishments and productivity of the Sheriff's Office during 2010. It was a difficult year economically, but the employees of the Sheriff's Office have really stepped up and showed a level of determination and dedication that has made me very proud.
Sheriff's deputies get a new look for 2011
The Sheriff's Office has changed uniform color, from brown and tan to black and gray. It was my desire to make a change in 2009 when I first took office, much like Sheriff Saba did 26 years ago when he first became sheriff.
Criminals are out Christmas 'shopping,' too
During the holiday season, busy people intent on trying to complete their Christmas shopping may fall prey to unscrupulous criminals who skulk in mall and shopping center parking lots, doing their "shopping" from the packages placed in parked vehicles.
There's no 'trick' to Halloween safety
Halloween can be a dangerous time, not from witches, ghosts and goblins, but from falls, choking, and vehicle accidents. There is no real "trick" to staying safe this Halloween. Just remember some basic safety tips and your holiday can be a real "treat."
New laws have hit the books
July 1 often brings a host of new laws that become effective in Georgia. As your sheriff, I am asked about these new laws daily.I wanted to take this opportunity to share some information about the laws that I am asked about most often. Those are the laws about texting and driving, about seatbelts in pickup trucks, and the new gun laws.
Be proactive in securing your home
In last month's article, I spoke on the various ways that the Dougherty County Sheriff's Office is involved in assisting you in protecting your property. Today I want to share some important tips for you to implement which in turn will make your home safer and less of a target for criminals.
Residents take a stand on violence
On Dec. 29, I attended a meeting with a group of individuals that are concerned about the violence in our community.
Make sure your child is protected in cyberspace
The welfare of our children and youth is one of my top priorities as sheriff. As parents, we may use extreme measures to protect our homes from intruders.
