In a recent Chatham County government meeting, officials addressed rising concerns over property safety and criminal activities, particularly a trend known as \"jugging.\" This term, which dates back to the 1800s, refers to criminals surveilling individuals at banks and ATMs, then following them to steal money from their vehicles. Authorities reported 222 incidents of jugging in Chatham County this year, with a concentrated effort to alert residents through newsletters and community signs.

The meeting also highlighted the successful apprehension of two suspects involved in a fraudulent scheme targeting bank customers. The suspects, one from Romania and the other from the Czech Republic, were arrested in California and will be extradited to face charges in Chatham County. Their capture was aided by tips from the community through the Crimestoppers program, underscoring its effectiveness in crime prevention.

Additionally, the Chatham County Police Department (CCPD) celebrated the graduation of six new officers from the academy and discussed ongoing recruitment efforts, including outreach at military bases and career fairs. These initiatives aim to bolster the department's ranks amid increasing community engagement activities, such as participation in local events.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the CCPD's Behavioral Health Unit (BHU), led by Corporal Hiram Rivera. He shared insights into the unit's impact on mental health crises in the community, detailing successful interventions with individuals facing severe challenges. Rivera emphasized the importance of building trust and rapport with those in need, sharing success stories that illustrate the unit's commitment to connecting families with essential resources.

Commissioners expressed their gratitude for the BHU's work, noting its recognition at both state and national levels for addressing mental health as a critical public health issue. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and expansion of mental health services within the police department, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the intersection between law enforcement and mental health care in fostering community well-being.