COFFEE COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - In a major push to reduce crime the Douglas Police Department and Coffee County Sheriff’s Office are teaming up to form a joint drug and gang task force. This plan aims to streamline efforts between both agencies and strengthen public safety across the county.

Both departments have investigated the same offenders and battled the same problems—often separately. That separation, officials say, created confusion. Now, the two are combining forces to bring focused enforcement.

“One of the big things out there is drug trade and also gang activity,” said Douglas Police Chief Brannen Pruett. “We want our citizens to feel safe. And the gangs—if they’re out there, we’re coming after you.”

As patrols increase and the new task force takes shape, community members say they’re hopeful this coordinated approach will bring lasting change.

Local resident Dalton King has already seen a difference.

“We purchased what used to be called the Dirty South, and we can honestly say it’s not the Dirty South anymore,” King said. “A large part of that is because law enforcement in Douglas has committed themselves to make a presence in those places.”

The plan includes deputizing four Douglas Police officers so they can operate across city and county lines. Leaders believe that this will eliminate overlapping investigations and help law enforcement with more strategic responses where they’re needed most.

The task force officially begins operations on May 1.

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