Ron Freeman has been named Brookhaven’s deputy chief of police.
Freeman previously served as commander of the south precinct for the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, where he worked for 26 years.
Police Chief Gary Yandura announced Freeman’s hire at a press conference April 15, the first day on the job for both men.
“I’m ecstatic to be in Brookhaven,” Freeman said. “For any law enforcement leader, It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to come and start a new agency and just be part of that in a brand new city with a new culture.”
Yandura said he and Freeman are vetting candidates for other top command positions, including lieutenants and sergeants.
“Hopefully we’ll get at least three to four good command staff members on board to help us out getting the rest of the department going,” Yandura said.
Yandura said he has ordered police vehicles that will arrive in six to eight weeks. Yandura said the city purchased 46 Ford Interceptor sedans and three SUVs.
“It’s a brand new model that’s widely accepted in the police field already. The marked units will be black in color,” Yandura said.
Chevrolet Impalas were purchased for immediate use by command staff.
Yandura said he and Freeman have yet to settle on the number of police officers that will be hired.
“We’re still looking in the 54-58 number range to start out with,” Yandura said.