Categories: Georgia News

Recent shooting at Shirley B. Winston park raises concerns over park safety

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The recent violence in local Columbus parks and recreation centers has raised questions and concerns about park safety.

RELATED: 3 new suspects arrested in connection with Jacarie Charles murder at Shirley Winston Rec Center

Since June, the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office says park patrol has been providing a presence at local parks. Sheriff Greg Countryman tells WRBL News 3 that Columbus City Council approved the park patrol unit with a nearly $2 million budget, intended for 12 employees and their salaries, uniforms, vehicles and equipment.

“Our primary job is to show a presence in the park,” said Sheriff Countryman. “We’re not there to be security for the ball games or things like that. Whoever does that, signs a contract with the city and it’s their responsibility to have their own officers there.”

Countryman explained that an estimated 12 hours a day is spent patrolling the nearly 60 parks in Muscogee County.

“We need to have that constant presence in there, but when there is heavy call volume, there’s a lot of traffic and we’re spread all over the county.” Countryman said.

The park patrol is scheduled to meet with Columbus Parks and Recreation soon about their concerns.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 2 people arrested in connection to Shirley B. Winston Park shooting, assistant police chief says

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