Ed Tucker says as ‘Director of Police Services’ he doesn’t have arresting authority and he’s not wasting any time in changing that. Until then, he’s responsible for the department’s budget and supervising daily operations.
The city also issued Tucker an unmarked patrol SUV.
"I will not run blue lights on my car. I will not be chasing bad guys. I will not be arresting anybody. That’s not my job," Tucker says.
He says he believes his 26-year military background qualifies him for the part-time position. He’s looking to become a certified officer and chief before next spring.
"Am I qualified to supervise lead and manage a police department? I believe so. Am I qualified as a police officer? The answer is no," Tucker says.
A spokesperson from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center says an uncertified person driving an unmarked emergency vehicle is legal as long they don’t make traffic stops or other peace officer related activities.
Tucker isn’t allowed to arrest anyone or make traffic stops.
He says he won’t carry a gun.
Until Tucker gets his certification, a lieutenant with the department is the "chief law enforcement officer."