NGCSU Public Safety Dept. prepares for new year, new role

DAHLONEGA - The Public Safety Department at North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) is making preparations to meet the demands of an expected busy year, including Chief Mike Stapleton's attendance of a training conference and planned expansion of the department's facility and duties.

As part of his continuing education and training in the administration of law enforcement, Stapleton recently attended the 2012 Annual Summer Training conference sponsored by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP). Heads of law enforcement agencies from throughout the state participated in the four-day conference. The GACP is responsible for the delivery of training to the chiefs of Georgia's law enforcement agencies.

"These conferences allow us to look at new tools such as software that enable our department to do more," Stapleton said. "We also held a campus chiefs meeting and discussed best practices for safety."

The Summer Training Conference was held at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center from July 22 through July 25, and covered a variety of topics. Stapleton was among more than 495 heads of law enforcement agencies in attendance. Several members of the departmental command staff were also present to learn about training topics that will benefit the department and North Georgia's community.

"Implement the valuable training provided at this conference, and continue to strive and enhance the professional development of your staff," GACP President Stan York said, speaking to the attendees.

North Georgia's Public Safety Department also is gearing up to become the departmental communications hub of the new university that will be created when North Georgia consolidates with Gainesville State College in January. The department is currently in the process of building a radio system to encompass all campuses. North Georgia's current communications system has more than 400 cameras installed throughout the campus, and ceaselessly monitors all events.

"We will be adding many new cameras and expanding the communications system in virtually every way," communications supervisor Paul Bennett said.

Members of the Public Safety Department feel this transition will be a positive step, and are looking forward to the new role they will play.

"We will be in a position to build a highly effective relationship with the campus community," investigator Adam Strzemienski said.