The Euharlee Police Departmentis pleased to announce that we have received a $38,800 grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS). The grant, which will continue through September 2025, helps finance the purchase of 14 Panasonic Toughbook laptops that will be utilized by our police officers to access critical information quickly, process data, and enhance their efficiency and safety while on patrol, effectively turning their vehicles into mobile offices. Access to real-time information and communication capabilities enhances situational awareness and allows officers to respond more effectively to emergencies, potentially improving safety for both officers and the public. The use of laptops also provides the capability of distributing electronic crash data to the Georgia Electronic Accident Reporting System (GEARS), which is used by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS). This data sharing is crucial to identify safety issues, prioritize resources, and develop effective highway safety programs, allowing for better understanding of crash trends, risk factors, and outcomes – ultimately leading to safer roads and reduced fatalities and injuries.
“The loss of one life on our roads is one too many, and the fact almost all fatal traffic crashes can be prevented is one reason why we are awarding this grant,” Allen Poole, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety said. “The target of zero traffic deaths in our nation is achievable, and we will continue to help develop and implement educational messages, enforcement campaigns, and other safety initiatives aimed at bringing us one step closer to our goal.”
“Law enforcement agencies are increasingly utilizing technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness, with laptops playing a crucial role in this advancement. With GOHS, and the Georgia Chief’s of Police providing the opportunity to purchase new laptops, it keeps our department on the cutting edge of technology. The laptops allow officers to access databases, including criminal records, warrants, vehicle information, and call history, in real-time, enabling them to make informed decisions and respond effectively to situations.” Chief Jody Matthews
The Euharlee Police Department is a full-time, state accredited, professional law enforcement agency located in southwestern Bartow County. The City of Euharlee has an estimated 4,421 population (2020 census data), spanning 5.4 square miles. The Euharlee Police Department employs 12 full-time sworn employees, 4 part-time sworn employees, and 3 administrative staff. We are invested in our mission statement: The Euharlee Police Department will serve and protect through dedication, professionalism, active cooperation with the community and respect for human rights and dignity.
For more information on the GACP LEA Technology Grant award, contact Chief Jody Matthews at (770) 386-7339 or [email protected]. For more information on GOHS and its highway safety programs visit www.gahighwaysafety.org.
