A new unit has been formed within the Marietta Police Department, the Security Services Unit, with a new sergeant.
These announcements were made Nov. 16 by Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin, City Council members and Marietta Police Department Chief Dan Flynn.
With violent incidents continuing to happen around the country, the decision was made to enhance existing Municipal Court security and form a new unit that also will be responsible for City Hall security, according to a MPD statement.
Also on Nov. 16, Officer Terry Wardlaw, a 20-year veteran of the MPD, was promoted to the rank of sergeant and given the task of establishing the new unit.
The team will consist of bailiffs, transport officers, court officers and sworn officers assigned to City Hall security.
Several members of the team are existing officers already performing their duties.
A few new positions have been added to strengthen the security of City Hall and for City Council meetings.
Visitors to City Hall will notice an increased police presence as well as new screening measures within the next few months.
