Gadsden State creates police department

Police Chief Jay Freeman with the GSCC safety vehicles on the East Broad Campus

In March 2023, it was announced that Gadsden State Community College was creating a new police department to serve all five of its campuses.

“This is the right thing to do for our students, our employees and our community,” said Dr. Kathy Murphy, president. “We want to ensure that our students have the best college experience by providing them with a safe and secure place of learning.”

District Attorney Jody Willoughby, left, swears in Police Chief Jay Freeman as his daughters look on. Jay Freeman was named chief of the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department. He took the helm in May and was sworn-in in September. He was most recently a captain at the Southside Police Department.

LEFT: District Attorney Jody Willoughby, left, swears in Police Chief Jay Freeman as his daughters look on.

“From a young age, I’ve had a strong passion for community service,” he said. “I’ve always desired to make my community safer. I’ve always wanted to be part of something greater than myself. Law enforcement was the ideal way for me to uphold these values. Protecting and serving, promoting peace and ensuring fairness align with my core beliefs. I believe law enforcement is more than just enforcing the law. It’s about community engagement, creating safe environments and helping those in need. My role is an opportunity to improve people’s lives and contribute to a harmonious community.”

Freeman oversees 12 full-time and seven part-time employees working within the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department. The department consists of security personnel and certified law enforcement officers who safeguard the well-being of students, employees and visitors on Gadsden State campuses.

For more information, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/Safety.

Follow the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department on Facebook at @GSCCsafety.