HANCEVILLE, Ala. – The Hanceville Police force has grown by two, with new officers Jason Wilbanks and Justin Freeman sworn in at the Hanceville City Council meeting on Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023.
Police Chief Joshua Howell spoke highly of both officers’ qualifications, saying that with a shared goal of community-based policing and proof of excellent performance, the hiring decisions were easy.
Freeman said he’s pumped to be back in the saddle after a hiatus from law enforcement. “I’m very happy being back in law enforcement, especially after a long break due to family issues,” he said. “I’m enjoying where I’m at; there’s good people in this town.”
Wilbanks cited Hanceville’s culture and leadership as his main reasons for joining, noting that a common focus on family and personal growth was the driving factor for him. “Chief Howell is a great man. He’s got a great mission in mind for the community and community policing,” Wilbanks said. “He’s very patient and understanding with the community and us officers…I’m just excited to help!”
In other council business:
- Connie Martin, a Hanceville resident of 30 years, shared her concerns over recent incidents of a local man, colloquially known as “Cat Man,” allegedly urinating publicly in her neighborhood. Mayor Kenneth Nail shared the concern and voiced intentions to meet with Chief Howell and Hanceville City Attorney Dan Willingham to address the issue.
- The council voted Bulldog Lane as the road of interest, subject to change, for its Rebuild Alabama Transportation Plan for the new fiscal year.
- Cameron Rowe was appointed to the Hanceville Planning Commission.
- The council voted to approve the purchase of a new video and audio monitoring security system for Hanceville City Hall and Hanceville City Jail.
- The council voted not to purchase additional cybersecurity insurance at this time per Willingham’s guidance.
- The Hanceville Police Department was awarded four golf carts and two metal detectors through the Law Enforcement Support Office 1033 Program.
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