Welcome to the Brookhaven Community Pulse. Your weekly guide to staying informed, safe and connected with our community.
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In this week's issue:
A Responsibility that Can’t Be Ignored
We encourage every gun owner in our city to ask yourself:
Is my firearm secured? Could a child find it? Could a guest access it?
If you choose to own a gun, then you must also choose to store it safely. That choice isn’t optional, it’s life-saving.
Children are naturally curios. What we think is “hidden” may only be one curious reach away. That’s why hiding a firearm in a drawer, closet, or under a mattress is not enough. Real safety means real storage: a locked case, a gun safe, or a secure device that keeps unauthorized hands away, especially those of our children.
We encourage every gun owner in our city to ask yourself:
Is my firearm secured? Could a child find it? Could a guest access it?
As your children grow, teach them to treat guns with the seriousness they deserve. Talk to them about what to do if they ever come across a weapon:
Stop what you're doing
Don’t touch the gun
Leave the area
Tell an adult immediately
And when your child visits a friend’s home, don’t hesitate to ask the parents if there are firearms present and how they’re stored. These may feel like tough conversations, but they are the ones that can save a life.
Gun safety starts with accountability. It’s not just about protecting your home. It’s about protecting your future, your children, and our entire community.
Let’s all do our part.
Technology in Action, Trust in Motion - Using Innovation to Protect Our Residents
In a world where crime adapts fast, we adapt faster.
Last week, our officers responded to what could have been just another theft at Publix in Town Brookhaven, but thanks to our advanced drone technology, it turned into a moment that showcased exactly why innovation matters in public safety.
The suspect attempted to walk out of the store without paying and, in an effort to evade capture, even changed clothes before leaving the area. But what she didn’t know was that the Brookhaven Police Department is watching with more than just boots on the ground…we’re equipped with eyes in the sky.
Within minutes of the call, our officers deployed a drone that scanned the area, identifying and tracking the suspect despite the wardrobe change. Thanks to the detailed visuals and the coordination between our drone pilot and patrol units, the suspect was located, apprehended, and the incident safely resolved.
This is more than just a “gotcha” moment.
It’s a real example of how we’re choosing to invest in smart, people-focused policing. Brookhaven is staying ahead, by combining top-tier officers with cutting-edge tools to create a safer, more secure environment for everyone who lives, shops, and works here.
We believe public safety isn’t just about responding after the fact, it’s about being proactive, precise, and prepared. Our drone program is just one piece of a much larger strategy that ensures Brookhaven remains not just protected, but trusted.
Community Heroes: Brookhaven Chamber Chief’s Award - Officer Orange
Recognized for Leadership, Loyalty, and Impact
This month, we are proud to shine the spotlight on Officer Orange, recipient of the 5th Annual Brookhaven Chamber of Commerce Police Chief’s Award, a recognition that speaks volumes about his impact both within our department and across the Brookhaven community.
Presented by Chief Brandon Gurley and Chamber Board Chair Dennis Williams, this prestigious award honors Officer Orange’s exceptional investigative work, his commitment to mentorship, and his leadership behind the scenes. Whether it’s leading major gang and trafficking investigations, helping shape the next generation of officers, or improving day-to-day operations for the entire department, Officer Orange brings excellence to everything he touches.
He doesn’t just wear the badge, he elevates it. Through his work ethic, integrity, and service-minded leadership, he has set a standard that inspires us all.
Congratulations, Officer Orange. Your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed, and we’re honored to have you as part of the Brookhaven Police Department family.
Student Corner: E-Bikes are Cool and so is Safety.
Electric bikes (also called e-bikes) are everywhere and we get it. They're fast, fun, and a great way to get around. But with great speed comes great responsibility.
If you’re riding an e-bike (or thinking about getting one), here’s what you need to know to ride smart and safe in Brookhaven:
What is an E-Bike?
An e-bike is a bicycle that has an electric motor to help you go faster or climb hills more easily. Georgia law says the motor can’t be more than 750 watts (basically one horsepower), and there are three classes of e-bikes:
Class 1: Pedal to go, with help from the motor up to 20 mph
Class 2: Use the motor without pedaling—still capped at 20 mph
Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, but you must be at least 15 years old to ride one
Safety Tips You Need to Know:
Wear your helmet—it’s required for riders under 16 and for all Class 3 e-bikes
Follow the rules of the road just like with a regular bicycle
Use bike paths when allowed, but remember: Class 3 e-bikes can’t go on all trails
Check your speed—fast doesn't always mean safe, especially around pedestrians
Stay visible at night with reflectors and lights
Don’t ride on sidewalks (unless you’re 12 or under—then you're allowed)
Important Reminders:
Parks and trails have their own rules—if it’s not marked for bikes, don’t ride there
No fancy tricks—acrobatic or stunt riding is prohibited in the city
Always look, listen, and respect others on the road or trail
Ride Ready:
Before your next ride, check:
Battery is charged
Tires are full
Brakes are working
Lights/reflectors are in place
E-bikes are a blast but only when they’re used the right way. Stay alert, stay respectful, and stay safe out there.
Traffic Safety Tips: E-Bikes Belong on the Road, But So Does Safety
As electric bikes grow in popularity, so does the need for awareness from riders, drivers, and pedestrians alike. Whether you're sharing the road with an e-bike or riding one yourself, everyone plays a part in safety.
For E-Bike Riders:
Ride with traffic, not against it. E-bikes are treated like bicycles under Georgia law and must follow the same rules of the road.
Stay off the sidewalks. Unless you’re 12 or younger, riding on sidewalks is prohibited in Brookhaven. Stick to the bike lanes or the road when safe to do so.
Use hand signals when turning or stopping to alert drivers and others nearby.
Be extra cautious at driveways and intersections, especially when riding on neighborhood roads where visibility may be low.
For Drivers:
Give e-bike riders at least 3 feet of space when passing.
Expect higher speeds from e-bikes than traditional bikes, they may be moving at 20 to 28 mph.
Check your blind spots before turning or changing lanes, especially in areas near schools, parks, and trails.
Be patient. E-bikes may accelerate quickly or ride near the speed limit, but safety comes first.
Know the Law:
Brookhaven PD enforces the law around unsafe or reckless e-bike operation. That includes:
Riding in restricted areas
Violating traffic signals
Carrying passengers improperly
Distracted riding (including earbuds in both ears)
E-bikes aren’t toys, they’re powerful tools. Whether you ride or drive, take a moment to look out for each other. Because on Brookhaven’s roads, every wheel counts.
If you see something, say something. Your call could make all the difference. For emergencies, always dial 911.
Community Events
If you are interested in volunteering or would like Brookhaven Police to join one of your events or engagements, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]
Peachtree Creek Greenway Run/Walk Club
📍 Meet at Briarwood Road Trailhead
1793 Briarwood Road NE
📅 Every Wednesday, starting September 24
🕕 6:00 PM
Lace up and hit the trail! The Peachtree Creek Greenway Run/Walk Club is open to all fitness levels. Participants can run or walk up to 3 miles at their own pace.
Whether you’re looking to stay fit, make new friends, or just enjoy the beautiful Greenway, this is a great way to stay active and connect with your neighbors. All are welcome!
Mondays with Madeleine: District 3 Town Hall
📍 Brookhaven City Centre | 4001 Peachtree Road NE
📅 Monday, October 6, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
District 3 residents, here’s your chance to connect directly with your Councilmember.
Join Councilmember Madeleine Simmons for her next Mondays With Madeleine town hall, an in-person gathering focused on community updates, public safety, and open conversation. This session will also include timely holiday safety tips from Brookhaven Police Department’s Sgt. Carlai Moore.
This town hall marks Councilmember Simmons' first official in-person meeting at the newly opened Brookhaven City Centre. Come be a part of it and see what the new space has to offer.
Building Bridges Between Law Enforcement and the Communities We Serve
📍 Location: Northeast Plaza - 3267 Buford Hwy NE Suite #740
📅 Date: October 11, 2025
⏰ Time: 10am - 12pm
Mark your calendars for one of Brookhaven’s most impactful community events!
Join the Brookhaven Police Department and a variety of local organizations for the Faith & Blue Health & Wellness Fair, a family-friendly event focused on health, safety, and community connection.
Through fitness, food, fun, and resources, we’re bridging gaps between residents and law enforcement while promoting well-being for all.
Here’s what you can expect:
Free health screenings (TBD)
Fitness & nutrition resources
Mental health support
Music, games & snacks
A chance to meet Brookhaven officers and community partners
Why It Matters:
Faith & Blue is a national initiative designed to strengthen communities by building bridges between residents and law enforcement. This health and wellness fair is our way of showing up for Brookhaven with care, trust, and connection at the center.
Interested in being a vendor? Scan the QR Code on the flyer or click here.
Resources and Programs
Resources
Brookhaven Alert powered by Smart911 is the official emergency notification system used by the City of Brookhaven to communicate with residents during emergencies.
If you are a Brookhaven resident and you leave for home for an extended period of time you can sign up for our Residential Checks.
We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our residents and business. One way we do that is by providing free security assessments to our residents and local businesses.
If you have a traffic complaint, we are here to listen.
The City of Brookhaven Offers Brookhaven Connect, a free smart phone app for citizens to report problems like potholes, code violations or sidewalk issues.
Programs
The Brookhaven Citizen Police Academy is designed to provide community members with an overview of how their local Police Department works.
Citizens on Patrol (COPs) is a community policing program sponsored by the Brookhaven Police Department.
The Brookhaven Police Department’s “Operation Plugged In” is a police/community video partnership that operates on a voluntary basis with the homeowners, neighborhoods & business owners who own private video security systems that record public areas such as roads, parking lots and sidewalks.
Learn more about our unmanned aerial systems (UAS) unit and view their flight history.
Download our Brookhaven Police App to stay in the know while you are on the go.
Crime Prevention and Community Watch: How Are You Storing Your Gun?
If you carry a firearm, then how you store it matters, especially when it's left in your vehicle.
Each year across Metro Atlanta, thousands of legally purchased firearms are stolen from vehicles. Many of these are taken from cars that were unlocked or where guns were left unsecured in plain sight.
What happens next?
Those guns often end up in the hands of criminals, used in crimes against the very communities where they were first owned responsibly.
Here's what you can do:
Remove it when possible. If you don’t need to leave your firearm in the car, don’t.
Use a lockbox or secure container that's bolted or tethered inside your vehicle.
Never leave a firearm visible, even if the vehicle is locked.
Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving firearms overnight.
Why it matters:
Your right to carry comes with the responsibility to protect that weapon from falling into the wrong hands. A stolen gun isn’t just your loss, it could become someone else's tragedy.
Brookhaven Strong
The Power of Community Starts with You
Being Brookhaven Strong doesn’t mean being perfect.
It means being present.
It’s choosing to wave at a neighbor, even on a hard day.
It’s checking in when something feels off.
It’s reporting suspicious activity, not ignoring it.
It’s showing up for events that bring us together.
It’s doing the little things. locking your car, storing your valuables, teaching your kids to be aware because safety starts with all of us.
Brookhaven is more than a place. It’s a people.
And when we each decide to care, to connect, to protect—our city becomes a reflection of our shared strength.
We see you, Brookhaven. And we’re stronger because of you.
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: What are the rules for riding an e-bike in Brookhaven?
A: In Georgia, e-bikes are divided into 3 classes:
Class 1 & 2: Max speed 20 mph, allowed in most bike lanes and multi-use paths
Class 3: Max speed 28 mph, not allowed on all bike paths and must be 15+ to ride
Riders must obey the same traffic laws as bicycles:
Ride with traffic
Use hand signals
Wear helmets (especially for Class 3 or if under 16)
Stay off sidewalks unless you're 12 or younger
Always check signs and trail rules before riding—and when in doubt, ask us!
Let’s build trust, one question at a time.
Got a question? Submit it here, and we might feature it in the next issue!