In the early morning hours of Sunday, January 8th, one of our officers was on patrol when he spotted a vehicle driving through the dark without taillights. After stopping the vehicle, the officer was able to smell an odor similar to that of an alcoholic drink emitting from within. While speaking with the driver, the officer also noticed that the man’s speech was slurred, and that he seemed to have difficulty locating his driver’s license. During the course of the subsequent investigation, the officer found additional evidence to suggest that the man had been operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. A check of the man’s license also revealed it to be suspended. He was then placed under arrest and charged with a Taillight Violation, Driving While License Suspended and DUI.

On Thursday, January 12th, one of our officers was monitoring traffic along Butler Avenue when he checked a vehicle’s speed at 42 mph in the 30 mph zone. After stopping the vehicle, the officer learned that the passenger had a warrant for her arrest through the Long County Sheriff’s Office (GA). She was subsequently placed under arrest and transferred to the Chatham County Detention Center to await transport to Long County.

On Friday, January 13th, our officers responded to a motor vehicle crash along Highway 80. While speaking with the drivers involved, an officer noticed that one of them had an odor similar to that of an alcoholic drink emitting from his person. The officer also noted that the man’s eyes were red and watery. When asked if he had been drinking that day, the man replied, “a little bit”. During the course of the subsequent investigation, the officer found additional evidence to suggest that the man had been operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was subsequently placed under arrest and charged with DUI.

Also on Friday, our officers joined members of the community at the historic Tybee Pose Theater to welcome Chief Tiffany Hayes as the newest leader of our department! Retired Chief Robert Bryson was on hand to officially pass the torch, as Chief Hayes was sworn into her new role by Judge Scheer. After being pinned by her two sons, Chief Hayes made time to meet and greet the many community members who came to witness this historic moment! We can’t wait to see the positive impact her leadership is sure to have on the island!

(Swipe through the slideshow for photos of the swearing in ceremony! For best results, hold your mobile device sideways)