GSCC police department gets fully-equipped patrol vehicle for $1 from Hokes Bluff

Gadsden State Community College's fledgling police department has its third patrol vehicle — at a cost of $1.

The City of Hokes Bluff provided the fully-equipped 2015 Ford Explorer to the college for a buck, according to a news release, after the vehicle was declared surplus by the City Council.

It's already in law enforcement trim, with a cage, lights, radar and sirens.

Mayor Scott Reeves said in the release that Hokes Bluff is among Alabama's safest cities, and “we want Gadsden State to be as safe as our community.”

He added, “We have children from Hokes Bluff who continue their education at Gadsden State. Their safety and security are a priority for us.”

GSCC President Kathy Murphy and Police Chief Jay Freeman took possession of the Explorer on March 21. They were joined by Hokes Bluff Police Chief Tyler Roe and GSCC Police Sgts. Colton Harden and David Bankson (Bankson also is a Hokes Bluff City Council member.)

“We love the relationship we are building with Hokes Bluff,” Murphy said in the release. “The safety and security of our students is important to us, which is why we are building a strong police department. Anyone who comes alongside us in partnership is very much appreciated.”

Freeman thanked Hokes Bluff for what he called a “generous gift,” and mentioned Reeves, Roe and the City Council in particular.

He said the Explorer “will play a vital role in serving all five of our campuses and supporting various Gadsden State events. We look forward to making lasting impacts that benefit our College and our community.”

GSCC also has four public safety vehicles, according to the release. Its police department was launched last June; Freeman oversees 12 full-time and seven part-time employees, both certified law enforcement officers and security personnel.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Gadsden State police department gets fully-equipped patrol vehicle