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Milton Police Report: Two Active Death Investigations, Staffing Updates, Skate‑park Explosion
Summary
At the Feb. 3 Milton City Council meeting, Police Chief Hernandez reported two active death investigations, recent staffing changes, progress on a camera project, purchasing three e-bikes with seized funds, and an explosive incident at the city skate park.
Police Chief Hernandez told the council the department is handling two active death investigations — one juvenile and one infant — and that cause of death is still pending.
The chief reported continued car thefts and described a recent incident in which an off-duty Ruston officer observed a stolen vehicle; the suspect fled after assaulting the officer and remains identified but not apprehended. Hernandez said a canine search and drone support were used and that the suspect has multiple warrants out of other jurisdictions.
On staffing, the department promoted Jim Sarf to sergeant while he recovers from a torn shoulder and bicep; two trainees are in Phase 3 of training; the department has hired for the last open position but currently has three officers out of regular duty (Officer Haney, Sergeant Sarf temporarily out, and Officer Crochet recovering from a hand injury). Hernandez said the department will continue training and support for those officers.
Hernandez said the department is working on a camera project with the city attorney to ensure compliance with new legislation and is coordinating with the city’s traffic engineering firm (Transpo) on a traffic‑calming and equity report. He also said the department will purchase three e-bikes using seized drug funds (described in the meeting as "drug money"). No purchase price was stated.
The chief described a vandalism incident at the skate park in which a portable restroom was exploded. Video showed individuals rolling up, dropping a mortar down the tube and detonating it while a person was inside. The chief said the individual inside appeared to be a homeless person; they were covered in contents of the portable restroom and may suffer harm later. Officers identified a subject on camera but have not yet apprehended suspects; potential charges include assault and vandalism.
Council members raised public-safety concerns about youths riding e-bikes and motorcycles and discussed reintroducing a helmet law; the chief encouraged timely 911 reporting and photographic evidence to aid enforcement and identification.
No specific timelines or dollar amounts were attached to the camera project or e-bike purchases; council and staff said they will follow up as projects develop.
