By John Schaffner
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Fulton County District Attorney Paul L. Howard, Jr. and the Multi-Jurisdictional Burglary Task Force have launched a public awareness campaign themed ‘Had Enough Already?’ seeking public assistance in catching burglars with a new website and billboards
Mayor Kasim Reed proclaimed June 24 as “Had Enough Already” Day in recognition of Burglary Task Force efforts to reduce burglaries in Fulton County by 30 percent over the next two years. District Attorney Howard also paid special tribute to State Rep. Jimmy Pruett (District 144), sponsor of the newly enacted ‘Smash and Grab’ Act.
Drafted by Zone 5 Community Prosecutor Sharla Jackson in partnership with a consortium of local and national retailers, the legislation enforces stiffer penalties for criminals convicted of smash and grab burglaries—a growing problem in Fulton County. The bill was signed into law on June 4 by Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Through the interactive website, www.hadenoughalready.com, the people of Fulton County will be able to share their own burglary stories and communicate directly with the Burglary Task Force. Partnering with Crime Stoppers Atlanta and the Atlanta Police Foundation, the task force is offering up to $2,000 rewards for credible burglary tips. Citizen awards also were presented to Fulton residents who assisted law enforcement in capturing burglars.
The Multi-Jurisdictional Burglary Task Force, spearheaded by the District Attorney’s Office, was formed in 2009 and is funded by a federal grant. It is comprised of law enforcement officers from the Alpharetta, Atlanta, East Point, Fulton County, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs police departments and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department.