Reserves play key roles in community safety

Many people would like to contribute to their community in some way but oftentimes aren’t sure how or where they can help.

For those interested in playing a role in community safety, the Russellville Police Department and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office are both currently accepting applications for their reserve programs.

According to Lt. Jeff Michael, who coordinates the RPD reserve program, reserves are volunteers who assist officers with several duties including traffic and crime scene control, providing security during public events and other obligations as deemed necessary.

“Our reserves are important in helping our full-time officers carry out their duties on a daily basis,” Michael said. “This is a great program and it’s something that’s very beneficial in the community.”

Capt. Mike Prince said people often think the reserve program is just for people who are interested in law enforcement, but that’s not always the case.

“This program can be a good stepping stone for people who think they might go into law enforcement one day because it gives you experience and gives you an idea of what a full-time police officer would have to do,” Prince said. “But we have people who don’t plan on making law enforcement their career that participate in the program just because they enjoy that type of thing.

“Whether it’s preparation for a career or just a way you think you can help out in the community, either way you look at it, it’s a good program.”

Michael said the reserve program is open to anyone age 20 or older who is a U.S. Citizen, holds an Alabama driver’s license, is in good health, has a high school diploma or a GED and does not have a felony record.

“Reserves go through a background check just like our regular officers,” he said. “They also go through three months of training and participate in additional training within the department and must pass their firearms qualifications.”

Michael said the police department supplies uniforms for the reserves but they are responsible for other accessories.

“We hold fundraisers throughout the year to help off-set some of those costs,” he said. “We just recently sold chances to win a .270 Marlin rifle, which was won by Glen Pruit.”

The next reserve class begins in March so anyone wishing to apply for either program should turn in their application by February 15.

An interview process will be held before applicants are formally accepted into the program.

Anyone who is interested in participating in the RPD reserve program can call 256-332-2230 for more information. Applications can be picked up at the police department or downloaded online at www.russellvillepd.org under the “Reserves” tab.

Anyone who is interested in participating in the FCSO reserve program can call 256-332-8811 for more information. Applications can be picked up at the sheriff’s office on Walnut Gate Road.