A Season of Safety and Community

In this week’s Brookhaven Community Pulse: a special spotlight on our Citizens on Patrol team, tips to avoid distracted driving during the holiday rush, crime prevention strategies to keep you safe while out and about, and our special Channel 2 feature. Plus, don’t miss details about upcoming events like ice skating at Haven in Brookhaven and Coffee with a Cop at Kroger. Let’s make this holiday season safe, festive, and full of connection!

Not a subscriber yet? Sign up here.

In this week's issue:

• Welcome Message: Brookhaven Police Department

• Community Heroes

• Safety Tips

• Community Events

• Crime Prevention

• Brookhaven Strong

• Engage with Us

🎄 A Holiday Message from the Brookhaven Police Department

Dear Brookhaven Residents,

As the holiday season continues, we at the Brookhaven Police Department want to thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. This time of year is about coming together, and we are committed to ensuring your celebrations are safe and joyful.

Whether you’re creating memories with loved ones, enjoying the festivities at the ice rink, or preparing for the holidays, we’re here to ensure you feel safe and supported. Our commitment is to protect and serve, so you can focus on what matters most—cherishing this special time of year.

From all of us at the Brookhaven Police Department, we wish you a season filled with peace, happiness, and connection. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

Community Heroes: Citizen on Patrol

This week, we’re shining the spotlight on our Citizens on Patrol (COPs) Team, a group of dedicated volunteers who are the unsung heroes of our department.

The COPs Team works tirelessly behind the scenes to support our officers and community. From patrolling neighborhoods to assisting with traffic direction and events, and reporting suspicious activity, their efforts allow our officers to focus on responding to emergencies and building stronger community ties.

One volunteer shared, “It’s rewarding to know we’re helping keep Brookhaven safe.”

Their commitment embodies the spirit of service that makes Brookhaven special. Interested in joining? Learn More Here.

Interested in joining the COPs Team?
The Citizens Police Academy is a prerequisite for anyone looking to become part of the COPs program. This engaging and educational program gives participants an inside look at police operations, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the safety of our community.

A date for the 2025 Citizens Police Academy will be announced soon. To secure your spot, join the waitlist today!

👉 Learn more about the Citizens Police Academy and sign up here.

Become part of a team that’s making a difference in Brookhaven!

Safety Tips: Distracted Driving

The roads are busier than ever during the holidays, and distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents. Here’s how you can help keep Brookhaven’s roads safe:

1. Eyes on the Road: Put your phone away while driving. A text can wait—your safety can’t.

2. Avoid Holiday Rush Stress: Plan ahead and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

3. Limit Distractions: Save the snacks, music changes, and GPS adjustments for when the car is parked.

4. Watch for Pedestrians: Stay alert, especially in busy shopping areas and neighborhoods.

Let’s work together to make our roads safer this holiday season. Your focus behind the wheel saves lives.

Here is a special message from our friends at the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration.

Community Events

This week, head over to Haven in Brookhaven Ice Skating for some festive fun with family and friends. Then start your week by joining us for Coffee with a Cop at Kroger—a great chance to connect with your local officers over a warm cup of coffee. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage and enjoy the holiday season!

Resources and Programs

Download our Brookhaven Police App to stay in the know while you are on the go.

Crime Prevention

Awareness While Out in Public

With the holiday rush in full swing, staying alert is more important than ever. Follow these tips to stay safe in public spaces:

1. Keep Your Belongings Secure: Use bags with zippers and carry them close to your body.

2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid distractions like texting or headphones in crowded areas.

3. Park Smart: Choose well-lit parking spots and lock your car.

4. Trust Your Instincts: If you notice suspicious behavior, report it.

5. Share Your Plans: Let someone know where you’re going and when to expect you back.

6. Stay in Well-Traveled Areas: Stick to busy, well-lit places and avoid shortcuts through secluded areas.

“See something, say something.” Call 911 for emergencies or 404-637-0600 for non-urgent concerns.

Brookhaven Strong

Find Joy in Giving

The holidays are a time of giving—not just in gifts, but in kindness. Small acts of generosity can brighten someone’s day and create ripples of positivity.

This week, we challenge you to:

• Pay for someone’s coffee or meal.

• Write a thank-you note to someone who’s made a difference in your life.

• Volunteer your time to help a neighbor or local charity.

Remember, the greatest gifts are those that come from the heart. Let’s make this season one of connection, compassion, and joy.

Engage with Us

Have a Question? We’ve Got Answers!
This section answers questions submitted by our community. Here’s one we received recently:

Q: Does the Brookhaven Police Department have a Neighborhood Watch program?
A: Yes, we do! We’re excited to announce that our Neighborhood Watch program will officially launch mid January 2025.

If you’re interested in getting your community involved, please reach out to Officer McCoy, who will be leading this initiative. Let him know your community is interested, and he’ll provide all the details on how to get started.

Together, we can work to keep Brookhaven’s neighborhoods safer and more connected!

Got a question? Submit it here, and we might feature it in the next issue!