Sheriff Scruggs talks success
BY BRUCE BRANUM
The Greenville Standard
It has been a little over a year since David Scruggs was appointed Butler County Sheriff by Governor Kay Ivey in replacement of retiring Butler County Sheriff Danny Bond.
Scruggs was recently interviewed and he discussed the successes the Butler County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has achieved.
First of note, the BCSO had upgrade their computer systems so that each deputy’s vehicle is equipped and they are able to do reports in their vehicle at the scene instead of driving back to the main office.
He noted they also have a facial recognition system, which is free to the county. The system gathers information from each jail and puts it into a database which other counties can access.
Scruggs noted that his office has used the system to identify some suspects out of Florida and helped solve crimes.
He went on to add that photos acquired from home and business cameras could be used to help identify subjects involved in crimes.
Scruggs then went on to say that his office has had over $500,000 in equipment donated through a military program started under Bond, at no cost.
He stated they have acquired several light towers, generators, a vehicle and trailers, lawnmowers, and a four wheel drive side by side.
Concerning the Butler County Correctional Facility (BCCF), Scruggs indicated it was 17-18 years old and seen wear and tear, especially on doors. They changed from a three hinged system to a full hinge system which completely runs the length of the door cutting out maintenance.
Scruggs then noted an expansion to the BCCF was budgeted. It would add one room with 16 beds and would be paid for by additional fees added to court cases and traffic citations.
As for crime, Scruggs said that it was up sometimes and down sometimes, but all 67 counties in Alabama experienced the same.
He noted that his office has been diligent to update the FBI computer system they report crimes too.
He added he couldn’t speak for previous sheriffs, but under his direction, all alleged crimes were being input into the system.
