Atlanta needs Training Center – officials should have the courage to say so

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 22, 2023

Georgia’s elected officials at the local, state and federal level should demonstrate a commitment to public safety – not political pandering – by publicly expressing support for the future Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, the House Republican Caucus said today.

“The City of Atlanta’s plan to build the Public Safety Training Center is a smart solution to a dangerous problem,” said Majority Leader Chuck Efstration. “We’ve heard for years the need for better trained law enforcement officers to de-escalate violent situations. Now, we’re seeing far-left forces — some of which have already destroyed public property and endangered law enforcement officers — fight Atlanta’s efforts to protect the public and preserve law and order. This is ‘Defund the Police’ by another name, and officials from both parties must speak up. Those leaders calling for a referendum should also talk explicitly about why they oppose better training for law enforcement and safer streets.”

Earlier this month, Attorney General Chris Carr announced the indictment of 61 people in Fulton County following a multi-agency investigation into the violence that has occurred at the site of the future Atlanta Public Safety Training Center and other locations. All 61 defendants have been charged with Violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Several of the defendants are also facing separate charges of Domestic Terrorism, Attempted Arson in the First Degree, and Money Laundering. Of the 61 defendants who have been indicted, only 13 are from Georgia.

House Public Safety Committee Chairman J Collins said proper training is essential to retention and recruitment of high-quality officers.

“In recent years, we’ve seen many experienced officers leave the profession, concerned leftist prosecutors would jeopardize their lives for doing their jobs in life-or-death situations,” said Collins. “And in cities like San Francisco we have seen the devastating effects of anarchy and lawlessness when elected officials abdicate their duty to protect life and property. Leadership on public safety – the most important role of government – means investing in facilities like Atlanta’s public safety training center. I’m voicing my support for the center, and I thank Governor Brian Kemp and Attorney General Chris Carr for leading on this critical issue.”

The House Republican Caucus is committed to ensuring Georgians are safe in their homes, businesses, and communities. In recent years, the General Assembly has taken numerous steps to combat human trafficking, prosecute violent gangs and hold prosecutors accountable in the performance of their duties. Working with Governor Brian Kemp, funding for the state’s public safety agencies has also been strategically increased to continue to recruit and retain highly qualified state law enforcement officers to protect residents and visitors alike.