We, both black and white, citizens of Fayette County won't save what we find desirable here if our answer is to give up and run. Fayetteville and Peachtree City are not Atlanta. White and Black live here as neighbors - respectful of one another; worshipping together; eating in the same restaurants; shopping in the same stores, etc., etc., etc. True, there are bigots and those who express hateful prejudice from both groups - but they do not represent the majority of the citizens in Fayette County. Law enforcement cannot do the job alone in keeping criminals out of Fayette County. We as observant citizens need to be made aware of the criminal element; their activities; and what attracts them to communities. After obtaining this knowledge - we need to practice those activities that thwart criminal activities. Running is not the answer - if you are moving among persons who practice the same activities that attracted the criminal element in the first place. Most communities started citizen awareness training TOO LATE! We have an opportunity here to maintain our standard of living. It will involve the Real Estate businesses; Law Enforcement; Retail Businesses, etc. working together with our respective community organizations to be made aware. What does attract the criminal element? A naive community - that does not watch out for one another. A business that does not take realistic security measures; a judicial system that is soft on crime; a law enforcement agency that is not well trained and equipped to handle the criminal element; a citizenry that is not observant - and therefore cannot assist law enforcement. There is a sizeable minority community in Fayette County that is here because of the outstanding school system; the quality of life; law enforcement agencies that appear to work cooperatively together and are well trained. What we don't need is the fear mongering of setting neighbor against neighbor because of the color of their skin. Fayette County has shown the world that in Georgia, there are communities that can get along. What we need is the leadership to bring all of the citizens of Fayette County together to protect what we have. Is there such an organization here in Fayette County composed of business leaders; neighborhood associations; law enforcement; etc., etc.? If so - when do they meet?

Well said indeed. As you stated, most communities that start eroding when the going gets tough didn't do enough at the beginning and were too late in getting organized and taking action before the slime gained a foothold.

Clayton County is taking notes.
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Caution - The Surgeon General has determined that constant blogging is an addiction that can cause a sedentary life style.

If we are to keep what we value about our community we must all work together regardless of color, religious or political affiliation. Crime is crime regardless of who is commiting it--we must all step up and speak up when we see things that are not as they should be. I am sure when many of you were growing up if you did something wrong any adult would speak up and tell you to stop and your reply was yes, maam, no maam, or yes sir, no sir and it did not matter what color or persuasion the person doing the chastising happened to be. We were taught to respect adults and treat them accordingly. We have to get over the concept we have today that if a teacher, preacher, neighbor or friend corrects your child, the response is to blame the person doing the correcting or head to a lawyer to institute a law suit. We need to learn to respect one anothers' property and to learn the value of hard work to attain the things we want in life, be they material or intrinsic.

InGodweTrust, all I ask is that the next time you speak with Travion is to let him know that I have already forgiven him and his accomplice. Let him know that now is the time for him to learn to be a man and make his own decisions and to make it a point to influence people in a Godly way. I went to prison when I was 20 years old and didn't get out until I was 25. Almost 18 months before I got out, I found out my mother had brain cancer. I realized then that my life was not my own. My mother lived every aspect of her life healthy. That's when I chose to live for Christ. And myself, along with you, am a believer who recognizes signs and wonders from God. My example being that before I got out, my mom was so near death that they were for sure she was going to die before I got out. I was released from prison for 24 hours to go be with her. I told my mother in that hospital that I believed that God was gonna keep her alive to see me released...and EXACTLY 40 days later I was released. 40 symbolizes so much for us Christians. It is a time of great trials. And God knows what a trial it was for me. My mother passed away 9 days after I got out of prison, but God remained faithful in keeping her alive until I was released. Patience was my gift from God in that trial. Returning to my point, forgiveness from God is only a prayer away. But he has to maintain for the long race. It has to become a lifestyle of praising and worshipping and loving and being faithful to God. He has done so much in my life since I told Him my life was no longer my own. Even though the future seems dark for him at this point, true riches lie in waiting in Heaven above. God is saving the best for last. As for the other guy, I'm sure he can't stay on the run forever. But he too can be a testimony. God will always bring something good out of the storm. He has a purpose for all 3 of us and whoever else, if anyone, is involved. We just have to submit to our Father and listen for his voice, because we are all his children. God bless you and your family. My prayers are with you.

here is a thought,

Ill bet he new what he was doing was wrong
Ill bet the thougt went thru his little head that what if we kill somebody
Ill bet the thought went thru his little head that what if we get caught.
I dont want to here crap about his back ground.

I have family members that grew up in a south georgia orphanage and
did not put guns to folks head and steal cars

thats a lame bull crap excuse.

He new right from wrong still does and thats all there is to say

Hes just damn lucky no one pulled a trigger on him or he pulled the trigger on an innocent person. for a few bucks and a car

What right does he think he has to take from someone at gun point
you know what my dad was not around, that does not give me the excuse to steal and kidnap.

bull

take it back to the real reason he does not give a crap about anybody but himself and thats the bottom line

Man you folks always have an excuse
lets blame it on the white man
he made us this way

he forced me into proverty and drugs and well fare and taking the easy way out

CRAP

why dont you look at the real issue you have so many groups that want to fight to give you everything for nothing thats your races mind set
give me give me take take take.

BLow it out your rear end and get a job a life and earn your keep

shadowalker

I never blamed anything on a whiteman, never said he wasn't guilty, never said he should not be punish. In fact I said I hope they both learn from their mistakes. Do not try to down talk me or my lil cuz behind a computer screen. I have a honest decent paying job, and yes it is more background to the story. Notice I said story not circumstance. Yes he is without a mom and dad but thats besides the point. Yes he could have gotten a job, ummm had an interview today. Without love and attention from his parents yes he did turn to the streets and was forced into this situation. Yes he may have known his what you say "little" head what would happen, but he was Forced into some stuff and no I will not explain much more, don't feel a need to. I really only wrote to reach out to the victim and could care less what you think. Everyone is stating the problem, but rare solutions. And why state a solution if you don't want to take action on it. So you lashing out at me because I am his cousin is not going to solve anything. Naw I don't have any excuses nor am I a racists. I actually agree with alot of the posters and their view on keeping their county safe. No one wants to be scared where they are living, but my issue is you have turned into something more. I was not even talking about his background relating to him, I said the story which is him being forced, so don't come at me like that!

I came back at you mainly because you seemed to be making excuses
thats all i here from everyone.

there is not a justifiable excuse for those type of actions

you are not forced to do anything

you need to care what i and others think that is all we are seeing now
crime crime crime and who is behind it

the
professor

shadowalker

I wish for you a peaceful life.

Your relative was not "forced into" this situation. He made a series of bad choices. Neither you or your relative have the corner market on tough times or being poor. Many people inspite of great poverty are very successful in this world. One of them is Oprah.

Was it easy, of course not. I believe she has written a book about it. Nobody gave her a hand-up or a hand-out. It is called sweat and personal pride.

You won't help your relative by making excuses for him.

You really are in the dark. "Do you really want someone like that here?" Again a reference towards Dave Simmons. He has already addressed the FCSO and below is part of Simmons letter to them.

"Since announcing my candidacy for sheriff, I have had an opportunity to talk with many of you. In doing so, I’ve heard your questions regarding my management style and how it would affect your positions within the department. Let me assure you that my leadership style is one of mutual commitment and respect. No one, and I repeat, no one, who is doing their job need have any concern about your future with the department.

I’ve been asked if I would honor the jobs of current department personnel when I am elected. The answer is an unequivocal yes. I have no plans for, and would not allow, a housecleaning similar to the one that took place in Clayton County."

With over 24,000 hits on Simmons website, they get it.

Everyone needs a second chance or helping hand once in a while. No body is perfect. The only perfect man to ever walk the earth is residing in heaven right now. So none of us should condemn or knock another person period.

May God bless us all and may he once again walk freely in our nation with us no matter where we are or go.

You keep saying forced,

did i force you to post, even thought my comment angered you
i did not force you

you made a choice.

CHOICE look that up in the dict.

nope

He was forced to choose what he thought would be easy money

FORCED

I DONT THINK SO

shadowalker

It all comes down to personal responsibility. These folks need to stop being "victims" of their race, and start being productive. There was a post earlier asking for information on part time jobs. Someone out there is taking accountability for themselves, and looking for a job. NOT STEALING! This goes to my earlier post regarding the NAACP.

I agree with your stand point Shadow, but before you posts a comment run a spell check. People may take you more seriously.

"The one constant in all of your failed relationships is you."

Welfare, Medicaid, HUD and now they're here...Housing Choice Vouchers, and more of these folks to come.

Is that something to be proud of?? What is your message?

Honestly you would think Dr. King was a mob boss. This is no way to honor a great man, who had a great vision for this country.

Nice. Good way to advertise for your candidate simmons.

A legacy of crime and expecting a free lunch through life is not something to be proud of.

I believe somewhere in these comments it was suggested that you are a bigot. Very creative of you by throwing in Dr. King to try to disprove it.

My response was simply commenting "It all comes down to personal responsibility. These folks need to stop being "victims" of their race, and start being productive." With some of the government programs listed, it’s hard to come out especially when it is a continual, generation hand-out. Ask Bill Cosby.

Keep trying to disprove what has already been stated before from you. You are a Randall Johnson supporter and you will support who he endorses. I get it.

I've come to suspect that Shadow spells poorly on purpose. Could it be that he/she is posting in character as some sort of distasteful farce?
How better to show the ridiculousness of completely bigoted and prejudiced opinions than by creating posts that overflow with grammar and spelling mistakes?
He/she even uses a pig as his/her picture...
It's all starting to make sense.

Yep thats it you caught me im really a genius 180 iq
im a professor at clayton state

im smarter then all of you
im just trying to cover it up so you want know who i am

maybe im typing it in a way you can understand because i feel you
are stupid and can not comprehend.

shadowalker

I get so mad when i read these people that just want to say it is culture or what ever lame reason why they choose wrong instead of
right, instead of responsibility (spelled that with out spell check)
well you know what i just looked for the spell check where is it

THE NAACP took it so id be looking in stupid.

shadowalker

The spell checker is called a dictionary. You do remember what those are, I hope. I will be the first to admit I cannot spell very well. However, you can use a word document to draft your comments then cut and past them in. Also writing poorly does show a sign of poor education.

I enjoyed your comment and I suggest that you re-create it as a letter to the editor of one of our Fayetteville or Atlanta or Peachtree City newspapers.
I sincerely hope that the criminal justice system serves both "carjacked" and your cousin well, but I doubt such a thing will happen.
If we're lucky, "carjacked" will get some kind of peace of mind and maybe a little compensation, but Travion will need our prayers and much more to make it out of the criminal justice system with the hopes of turning his life around like "carjacked" did.

Prisoners are the single most discarded and disenfranchised portion of our society. Underfunded, overcrowded and completely centered on the un-Christian retribution form of punishment, our prisons breed criminality and recidivism when they should be correcting it.

As for the quasi-bigots (skyspy, ptc avenger) and outright bigots (shadowalker), you should write letters to the editor as well, so that we can all know where your prejudiced opinions come from.

Call me a "bigot" all you like. In a few years you'll be calling me something else: a prophet.

For the record, my "prejudiced" opinions come from astute analysis of the facts. If I came on here and opined, "All minorities are criminals who are ruining Fayette County," THAT would be prejudging without regard to the facts. Pointing out the fact that the increase in crime coincides with an increase in minorities is not prejudging, it is a reflection on a fact. Reporting that Fayette County is in the midst of a largely black-driven crime spree is not prejudging, it is the unfortunate truth arrived at when one seriously looks at the facts about who these criminals are.

Prejudiced? Bigoted? Hardly, go take your buzzwords somewhere else because they carry no validity here.

I’m not sure what facts you are looking at PTC Avenger.

The 2000 census lists Fayette County’s population as 92,086. The minority population was about 16%.
The Atlanta Regional Commission now estimates Fayette’s population to be 106,144 with a minority population of about 26% (19,757).

Now, let’s compare Fayette County to metro Atlanta’s more affluent and much more white Forsyth County (ranked this year by Forbes as the 13th richest county in the nation).

According to the 2000 census, Forsyth had 98,407 people. Of those, a whopping 0.7% were black and only about 4.5% were minorities. The census bureau now says that Forsyth is home to 158,914 folks and the ARC claims that only 7.2% (11,410) of them are “non-white.”

I took these population figures and did some simple math with the GBI’s crime statistics, which are readily available on the web. The GBI’s numbers only run through 2006, so I’m not completely current, but Fayette County’s population has grown only marginally since then. Forsyth has added over 10,000 (overwhelmingly white) residents in the past two years, so their crime statistics have probably gone up a little.

With current population estimates and 2006 official GBI crime statistics, here’s what we have:

Murders per 100,000 residents:
Fayette: 0.94
Forsyth: 3.78

Rapes per 100,000 residents:
Fayette: 5.7
Forsyth: 9.4

Assaults per 100,000 residents:
Fayette: 33.4
Forsyth: 45.8

Burglaries per 100,000 residents:
Fayette: 228
Forsyth: 324

Larcenies per 100,000 residents:
Fayette: 1240
Forsyth: 1400

Now, I’m no sociologist or researcher or anything, but these numbers seem to contradict what you are prophesizing.

And if the numbers don't back you up, what buoys your prophecy (I'll give you a hint: your personal prejudices)

Take your prejudices and bigotry somewhere else, because they carry no validity here.

If you really think a black crime spree is overtaking Fayette County, why don’t you write your elected representatives, or at the very least, write and sign a letter to the editor of one of our local papers.
Your easy anonymous blogger bigotry is a disgrace to our community.

It isn't all that. Like you point out, growth is OUT OF CONTROL. Traffic is horrible, etc. Folks that think it's crowded here should drive north every now and again. My Sister lives up there, and they can have it. PTC is a very tranquil community compared to the area she lives in.

Weak.

I'm not quite sure what you're trying to prove here. My guess is that you're trying to show that Fayette County can't possibly be experiencing increased minority crime because Forsyth County, with a smaller minority population, in fact has more crime than us. OK, so? What's your point? White people commit crime too, we get it. I'd be interested to know the racial breakdown of the crimes committed there, though. Also, these numbers are too dated to be relevant. And no, these numbers do not contradict what I'm prophesizing. Unless we do something and do it very soon, Fayette County will eventually erode into a rundown ghetto cesspool with title pawnshops on every corner. How my prophesy is contradicted by crime stats from a county 100 miles away is a mystery to me.

Still not convinced? Years ago I heard of a tee shirt that read "We took Riverdale...Fayette's next." I dismissed such claims as unsubstantiated rumor and hearsay. Then I saw one. It was around two maybe two and a half years ago at the Pit Stop at 630 Glynn Street. Such a brazen message shocked and appalled me, as it should every single person living here.

Your post was an irrelevant and jejune attempt to discredit me. When I post on here I am speaking the thoughts of more than just one solitary man, remember that. I guess I'm just a "typical white person."

That has been around for awhile.

I moved here right after "white flight" took off from Clayton. This isn't a fairy tale people it happened. I saw it with my own eyes and I saw the crime increase. Cry and snivel about it, but you can't change history. If we don't learn from this we are doomed to repeat it. People are already talking about leaving Fayette, because of crime......Where are we going next?? Where is the next "best place to live"???

I was not here but I have heard from lifelong residents of the Atlanta metro area that the same T-shirts were seen in DeKalb with "you are next Clayton" written on it in the 80's.

I wasn't here so I cannot confirm or deny it. Then after Clayton fell into the abysmal sewage pit of crime, now we are seeing T-shirts that say you are next Fayette.......

Is this a "legacy" to be proud of?? Spreading crime for the "fun" of it??? Huh?? This is not a "legacy" to be proud of or a part of.

Currently these criminals have all come from clayton or fulton, everytime they are arrested, look at the address.....usually clayton or fulton....they don't live here......yet.

on some of your comments. For instance, "I moved here right after "white flight" took off from Clayton. This isn't a fairy tale people it happened. I saw it with my own eyes and I saw the crime increase. Cry and snivel about it, but you can't change history. If we don't learn from this we are doomed to repeat it. People are already talking about leaving Fayette, because of crime..."

I thought, per you, we have very low crime. That Mr. Simmons is just a "Fear Monger" and the crime stats are inflated! Do you mean that these people who are considering leaving our County are leaving because they see all around them what you negate all the time in your posts? You mean, people don't really listen to you? They are smart enough and aware of their own surroundings and read and listen to those stating the opposite of you? WOW!

You seem to contradict yourself alot.

If crime increases here the same thing will happen again. It is still low didn't you see Howie's post where he listed crime stats.?

How is our upstanding candidate doing on answering the tough questions? Just asking...

Read drewpdawgs post: apparently your cadidates alleged college degree can't be verified. I'm sure there is a logical explanation.....

Why the hasty departure from the little security job at the state capitol?

Have a great day.

"If crime increases here the same thing will happen again. It is still low didn't you see Howie's post where he listed crime stats.?"

Not low enough for me. I like reading the actually crime statistics from the FCSO. There are to many closed cases for me as there aren't enough officers to keep up with it. You know, the crime reports Simmons paid money for that you gasped at. That's where you get all the info one needs to really see what's going on in this County.

"Read drewpdawgs post: apparently your cadidates alleged college degree can't be verified. I'm sure there is a logical explanation"

Sure it can.

"Why the hasty departure from the little security job at the state capitol?"

I don't believe there was a hasty departure.

I was raised by a maid I was as close to as a Mother, in many ways, she was my Mother, she was someone of another color, who loved me, so I came here with no bias.

There is something really bad and ugly in Atlanta, and it is called, 'pay back' and 'we are owed'. I've lived in many places and I never felt the black hatred till I moved here. I was raised in a place much more southern and from a very old family in that area. I was never taught to hate, I was taught 'they are just like us' just darker.
When I first came here, the whites kind of questioned my attitude, but I thought they were backwards, and I was ashamed for them.. After living here, with an open heart, I have to say I was wrong.

The blacks here are mean, and really nuts. Some are nice, as I said, I never saw my friends as black or white. But this is a scary place for whites. You read about it more and more. It is reverse discrimination at its best. Sometimes I think Atlanta is going to wind up like in the movie, Blood Diamonds..all riding around with guns and shooting up the place..They seem to really hate us.

I despise the Rep after Bush, but I'm really afraid to put a black in office because of this attitude I see here. I feel that this black lash against whites I see in Atlanta will spread all over. I don't think blacks in office will be nearly as nice to the opposite race as whites in office. I fear Obama as president, but I also fear another Republican.

I moved here from the north just as Clayton was falling into violent crime and all of my co-workers both black and white were moving out. No one wants to live in areas that tolerate gratuitous crime.

There is a different attitude here among SOME black people not ALL. The problem is the "some" group is ruining it for everyone. The "some" group is angry and they think the whole world owes them a living. In Atlanta the hate, mistrust, and anger has been amplified ten fold. That's why we have some people who cry and snivel on this site everytime the suspect is described as black. Instead of being mad at the suspect, they are mad at the reporter for reporting it. They would be more productive to place the blame where it belongs on the the suspect.

They are mad at an entire race of people for what a small percentage of whites did. I don't feel guilty for any of our country's shameful past of slavery. My ancestors were not here. They were in Germany. This is true for many, many white people. There families were not here, they were still in Europe.

The real question is where do we go from here? We have taught a whole new generation of kids to hate each other based on race. We have whole counties that have been left in shambles because of crime. From Fulton, to DeKalb to Clayton......when is enough enough?

Should everyone keep moving until the entire Atlanta metro area is an abyss of crime? I don't see any easy answers for this. I wasn't planning on staying here after retirement anyway, so I guess it doesn't matter to me too much. It just seems like a shame. The entitlement crowd ruins it for everybody.

I have lived here since 78. The real problem began when they tore down Techwood Public Housing in ATL and built the replacement in Clayton. Clayton was not that great in the 80's; when I was a student at McIntosh in the 80's we called Riverdale "Reeferdale". That was where the stoners went to buy their weed. Everybody who moves here says that " it was great when I moved here, but has gone downhill since then". When I moved here my mom went to Newnan or Griffen to go grocery shopping. People get what they ask for!

the blacks are not as fair as the whites...they are back in African style.. war chants...and give me...an example it isn't so?

Most whites are leaving...the only ones who are not...are the ones in disbolief...get out...sell your house to someone from Clayton...but the real key is don't move further out...move...AWAY.. ! this is no place to live ...you will just keep going through this..the story repeats itself ...over and over...someone show the example of it not being so.

facts are facts

Read this:
http://ssfootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=778176
These are the kind of black people we have in Fayette County.

When I was in school at Fayette County High in the late 90’s, we went to Peachtree City to get our “reefer” from the white dealers that had roamed the golf cart paths unsupervised since they were kids.
Not everyone who reads these blogs are white and bigoted like y’all.
Here’s an easy answer for the bigots: move to Utah.
Your messages of bigotry and prejudice are insulting, disgusting and harmful to our community.
Again, I encourage all of you with bigoted messages to write signed letters to the editor of our local papers

I never said they were buying the weed from any race. Most that I knew were buying from whites. You assume alot when you call me racist. The comment about shutting down Techwood came from a black friend of mine who used to live in Clayton. Read my post again, I never mentioned race. If YOU assumed something it was due to your pre-concieved notions of Clayton County in the 70's and 80's.

Here’s an easy answer for the bigots: move to Utah.
Your messages of bigotry and prejudice are insulting, disgusting and harmful to our community.

Oh, is bigotry and prejudice tolerated more in Utah than any other place in the US? Or is it because it's mainly Mormons there and they are bigots or accept bigotry more than people in the Fayette community? Nice logic.

vast wilderness areas where you won't have any neighbors for miles and miles.
And if you want to live in an urban area, the state is over 95% white.

She HATED it. Said they were only accepting of Mormon's etc. Looked down on anyone who chose to take a caffiene, much less had an adult beverage. You can have Utah. I like Peachtree City myself.

always state "usually clayton or fulton....they don't live here......yet." We have the privilege of living in a very high economic status here in the city and county. We have lots of shopping, business, churches, banks along with unaware citizens walking around with money in their wallets, thinking that we have very little crime here. IT ALWAYS STARTS SOMEWHERE ELSE SKY! THEY COME FROM ELSEWHERE! And crime is here in our little Utopia whether you say so or not.

I hope everyone watched on PBS30 tonight the feature on Gangs. Very much an eye opener and validates exactly what Dave Simmons states. We have "homegrown gangs" these days. Gangs that use the internet such as Face book and MySpace.

Keep your head in the sand Sky as I am very hopeful that the rest of our citizens are realizing it and getting very, very concerned to do something about it. And yes, Simmons can do it by creating a Gang Task Force, initiating Community policing to name just a few.

It is not a "privilege". Myself and my ancestors worked hard for my ability to earn a good living. The poor can still work their way out of poverty. While I did not grow up in poverty myself, I was not allowed to forget what family did before me. We are not lucky or privileged we earned this. Read Darwin's Origin of Species.

we have gangs already in South Fulton, Clayton, Pike and Coweta counties. There was even gang stuff in Fayette County High this year. I think we need a tough DA and sheriff. The more uncomfortable we make it for these hooligans the less likely it will be that they take chances in Fayette County. This upcoming primary election is vital to the future of this county. I don't think Ballard has the intestinal fortitude or brains to do this for us. I strongly suggest people wake up and vote for RUDJARD HAYES!!!! He'll prosecute the dirt bags and make them pay their debt to society.

Good for you, Rudjard Hayes has my vote.

Ever ask Mr. Hayes who he would like to see as our next Fayette County Sheriff? Might want his opinion.

we spoke about the candidates for sheriff. i dont want to speak for him but I think he might be leaning towards someome that is tough on crime.in my opinion that would be Simmons.

so I guess i have to figure out who Scooter is liking and vote against him. If Scooter likes one candidate over the other that is my sign he must have a hidden agenda just like his buddy Ballard.

because i would ask him. Does anyone know who he would want to work with as sheriff?

The criminals like the 2 in this story are coming from Clayton and Fulton, not from our county. It seems like everytime one of these crime stories is reported the suspects are described as being black. Whats your point? We still have the lowest crime in the Atlanta metro area.

They only place where our own residents are committing crime is in PTC, and if I had to guess it is the white teens 95% of the time.

Sooooo, are we ready for roadblocks yet??

I appreciate the prayers, and its good to know others on this board are walking in the spirit of love. I don't want you to think that I was not responding to something positive, but giving into the negative mess. It just irks me that Shadow wants to take jabs because he know I am the criminal cousin, because all the stuff he is trying to say I never said so therefore he is making racist comments out of spite, then he is doing it behind a computer screen. He is not some hero because he states how he feels. Who cares, especially if he is not going to make these negative situations more positive. Anyway be blessed!!!! I am just hoping the victim will respond!!!

InGodWeTrust, remember that this is a forum for the peanut gallery. These postings are not reflective of our society here in Fayette county. They are the anonymous comments of the select few who post on this site. Some posters use it as a blog for harmless back and forth banter, some use it as a way to connect and help others, and some unfortunately use it as platform to spread bigotry and prejudice.
Thanks for the blessing. As I said before, your family and 'carjacked's" family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please feel free to email me through this site.

Why don't you live in DeKalb, Fulton or Clayton counties?? Oh, go on be honest. Why did you not raise your family in one of those counties?

Have a safe Fayette County day.

I live in Fayette county because I work in Fayette County. After growing up near here and then spending the better part of a decade living in other states, I moved back to be close to my family.
Since I am not married or a parent, I am not raising a family here. I searched for places to live in Clayton, South Fulton and Spalding when I returned, but believe it or not, rental rates in those places are not much cheaper than they are here in Fayetteville.
(in fact, the complexes in Lovejoy and the newer one in Clayton near the county line on Ga. 85 are more expensive than what is available in Fayette)
In order to get a significantly lower rental contract I would have had to go to Griffin or Forest Park, where the commute would have deposited my rent savings into my gas tank.
It's always easier to justify one's bigotry when he/she thinks that everyone else feels the same way.

“or Thomas Mindar for sheriff. He is the only candidate that takes seriously the threat coming from the Clayton and South Fulton and has a plan to take it on.”

I believe Dave Simmons has been trying to say this for a very long time. It took someone like Simmons to bring all this to light, so much so, he’s been labeled the "the crime fear monger." It has only been recently that Simmons has been validated through Babb and Mindar stating the very same thing. Mindar’s gang plan was exactly quoted from one of Simmons letters to the Citizen. Sad. It just comes down to old fashion “good ole boy” politics.

“Fayette County is facing its biggest challenge ever. Our sheriff's department needs to adapt and be able to target the thugs that seem to currently be comfortable in our county.” Valid statement of what I’ve been trying to get across and I totally agree. Mindar needs more time and I think he would be a great Sheriff next go around. Along with Simmons and a better DA, Rudyard Hayes we have a winning, tough on crime, get out of Fayette and don’t come back system.

Was crime ever lowered or even slowed while Simmons was in Detroit?

Did he ever take over a territory or precinct and did crime ever diminish under his watch??

You see theories and opinions are like something else, everyone has them......theories about fighting crime look really good on paper, but the proof is in the actual stats. that say crime was lowered.

If crime was never on the decline in Detroit, why would any of those half baked ideas work now, 12+yrs later?

I can hardly wait to see how the spin cycle works on this one.

Seems to me that crime in Fayette County is MUCH worse now than 5-10 years ago!
Just think how bad it might have been without Sheriff Johnson and his deputies? Can't imagine how bad Detroit would have been without Mr. Simmons!

Those are stupid arguments!

We need something new to stop the growing crime wave here. Who can do that?

Sage first of all this is still a very rural county. The Sheriff's dept. only has jurisdiction in the rural part of the county unless invitied by the city police to help. Which would be the cities of PTC, Fayetteville and Tyrone.

In PTC we have already benefitted twice now from a new police chief who sees the wisdom in all law enforcement working together. When they all work together, you and I win, and the criminals lose.

Someones ability to fight crime is very important. Theories all sound great and very profound on paper, however the proof is in the end result. We want results.

The Fayetteville police and the Sheriff's office have done a great job of fighting crime. They published stats that showed crime has actually gone down not up. Don't get me wrong any crime is bad.

Clayton, and Fulton counties have had 2-3 murders everyday since the late 80's to present. Ever since white flight took off and moved to Fayette the criminals have tried to follow us. The fact that we aren't having 2 to 3 murders here a day says they are doing something right.

Since you all always so full of profound ideas what would you do differently to keep us safe if you were in law enforcement?

The Sheriff's dept. only has jurisdiction in the rural part of the county unless invited by the city police to help

Actually, the Sheriff's dept has jurisdiction over the entire county. That's why we all get to vote for Sheriff. They can pull people over, serve warrants, or whatever within city limits without permission. They even have authority outside of our county, which is why they can participate in drug busts elsewhere.

I writ a bloge ye can rede! It isselfsplanitory!

Crime no worse huh? Where?
I thuink them counties you mentioned got ten times our popultion don't they?

Benoit runned up our killin numbers I think.

Mind telling us the specifics of Thomas Mindar's plan to take on the incoming crime?

Everyone WANTS to do so but just patrolling won't do it!

I drove through Clayton County Sunday and saw three vehicles stopped by Clayton County police! They appear to be trying to do something within their own county.

Specifics, please?

drive through Clayton county the other day:)

I don't have much time to dig up the article where he cited a bunch of specifics, but there here is an idea that he mentioned that would do WONDERS for Fayetteville.

Heavy patrols of the corridors coming from Clayton and Fulton. While he doesn't want to be heavy handed on handing out actual speeding tickets, he wants to pull over a lot more people on these roads.

That alone will help in many ways. It would give visitors the impression that law enforcement is paying attention, which would be a nice contrast to our current "reactive" style of law enforcement.

Also, I think it is safe to say that a large majority of thugs smoke weed. If there are K-9 units constantly patrolling and pulling people over on these roads, well, Fayette county would me much less attractive of a place to visit to the thug community.

This is in stark contrast to the current state of law enforcement. It is quite safe to travel at 65+ MPH on 85 north of the pavilion. On Hwy 314, you are running with the pack if you a are traveling at 60+ (speed limit is 50 mph). The majority of cars running on those roads are from our marvelous neighbors to the north. When they are traveling through Fayette County in this manner, it doesn't give them the impression that it is a very strict county. Which is not the impression we need to be giving to the criminal element.

No, Mindar won't be handing out speeding tickets like crazy. But he will change the perception visitors have of Fayette County. Strong presence in the north end of the county will work wonders for us.

He has other great ideas too, go do some research

First of all, YOU being alive is NOT LUCK! Its the hand of God that carried you through this!

Second of all I am pissed about all of this. Today's society is getting worse and worse all b/c of the cost of living. People think its ok to STEAL, KILL, and DESTROY b/c THEY are hurting. Thats NOT an excuse. There are thousands of hurting people around the world, people that are starving, people that live in Land Fields,people that take baths in the sewage, people that are dyeing day in and day out. So when criminals think they are struggling, they need to sit back and take a long look at this dyeing world. I believe that the government needs to go by the term of " You Reap What You Sow" . If you steal, you get your hand cut off. If you kill, You get killed. If you shoot somebody, You need to get shot, if you RAPE or molest, you get castrated, so on and so forth. THAT'S the ONLY way I believe that the crime all around america will cool off.

Thirdly, The guys that did this, are very selfish people. Everyone is trying to work and make a dollar and b/c they think they are struggling and they are way to LAZY to go out there and work like every OTHER normal human being to try and make something out of themselves, they chose to steal and kill ( or whatever). I have PLENTY of friends that started off on the wrong path growing up and they didn't have to steal and kill...MY GOD PEOPLE, get off your lazy butts and go mow someone's grass for a few dollars. We all had to start somewhere. The sad part of this is, the 17 year dude, his life is OVER all b/c he chose to get in with the wrong crowd, all b/c HE chose this route for his life. There IS NO excuses for CRIME! GROW UP...BE A MAN!!! As for the one who isn't caught ""YET"", wrath WILL come, and being 22 years old, MAN what are you thinking. You are about to LOSE the rest of your life! You gotta be a lot smarter then this. MONEY IS NOT EVERYTHING, MONEY IS NOT WORTH HAPPINESS, MONEY IS NOT WORTH GOING TO PRISON FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!!!!! GROW up people. Is this all you spend your quality time on, RUINING OTHER PEOPLE'S LIVES? MAN thats cool! You will be caught and you will spend the rest of YOUR life in prison. As for the families of these suspects? You must be embarrassed that the people that you call " FAMILY" have done this...somebody should have spent more time teaching them good and not showing them CRIME, there whole lives.
By the way...this goes for ALL black, white, hispanic, chinese and whoever else is out there! I AM NOT RACIAL! Every ones blood is RED!

Anyways, enough said tonight! I am SURE ill have people responding, so bring it!

If this is legitimate, and I have no reason to suspect that it's not, then I thank you for sharing your frightening experience. Most people don't think that something like this could ever happen to them. They think that things as unthinkable as this happen to other people, not them. Perhaps if more people began to realize the gravity of the situation we face then we can begin to seriously confront this issue of rising crime. To everyone reading this, imagine what this ordeal must've been like for this man. One minute you're minding your own business, and the next there's a gun to your head, your life is threatened, and you're locked in a trunk. It's difficult to even comprehend. Now imagine if this happened to your wife. Your parents. Your children. Years ago the prospect of something like this happening here was virtually unheard of. These days it is a reality of life. The threat is here. But is it here to stay?

Our county has been destroyed by skyrocketing growth and development. Retail outlets litter our once serene landscape. Drug busts are routine. Businesses both large and small are closing their doors. One is hardpressed to travel in certain areas and not be nuisanced by vulgar bass thumping rap music. Clayton County has the highest foreclosure rate in the state (thanks to minority friendly subprime loan packages). Clayton County will lose its school accreditation in less than three months. Our school system is already being invaded by freeloaders who simply can't compete in the Fayette school system. Peachtree City's cartpaths endure robberies and have illegal Mexican immigrants riding around on golfcarts to avoid the complexities of legally operating a car. Local businesses are robbed seemingly all the time. TJ Maxx, RadioShack, Johnny's Pizza, Friedman's Jewelers, local churches, Dunkin' Donuts, Attina's Music, Applebee's, a local landscaping company, Autry's Armory, and others that have gone unreported. Gunshots fired at a house in northwest Fayetteville at 1 AM. Cocaine busts at Mike and C's. I could go on, but I won't.

Any proactive attempts to halt future crime are predictably met with cries of "racism," "discrimination," "Jim Crow" and accusations of profiling. While Sheriff candidate Simmons is taking a tough-on-crime stance, if he were to become Sheriff his actions would regrettably be met with chants of "Uncle Tom." With groups like the NAACP, the Universal Negro Improvement Association, and the Black Panthers eyeing Fayette County for another one of their "community organization" plans it seems like Fayette County is in a bind. Damned if we do, damned if we don't type deal. Understand? Lamentably, it seems as if the writing may be on the wall for Fayette County and its standard of living.

But must this be the case? I don't believe so. We can stop this rising tide. Since our law enforcement agencies are largely remaining mute and cannot seem to adequately deal with these issues, it will be up to patriots and good citizens to do so. I advocate an unorganized union of community patrollers. These individuals should roam the cities every so often, days and nights, and be on the lookout for crimes or suspicious activity. If one witnesses a crime he should immediately call the police or, if the circumstances warrant it, intervene as necssary. This is our home and we have every right to do this.

Before I wrap this up I'll leave two interesting side points to ponder. Click on the above image of Christopher Deangelo Wakefield to see a larger version. Notice the tattoo he has below his right eye - a tear. In the street gang world, an individual who sports a tear tattoo often does so to publicize the fact that he has killed before. The gang community sees it as sort of a badge of courage, so to speak. Then look at his teeth. I think you get the point. Secondly, there is a popular website called craigslist that allows everyday average people to buy/sell/barter/exchange goods or services. On this site there is an erotic services section where prostitutes advertise to potential clients. While the overwhelming majority of these prostitutes have been operating outside of Fayette County, the past several months have seen a spike in the number of solicitations within Fayette, specifically Fayetteville and Peachtree City/Fairburn. So there you have it, murderers and prostitutes.

Is this the kind of diversity we want??

"What Can We DO?" by PTC Avenger

My hat is off to you. I read this several times and yes, saw the gang tear. I hope everyone reads this. And thanks PTC for taking the time to write this eloquent well written letter.

Hopefully, people will wake up around here.

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm thrilled you've made such a turn-around in your own life.

I heard that you did a good job giving important info when you called 911. You should be proud of yourself for being able to think so clearly during all of that, including the call. Sounds like your prayers really were working!

While I'm very sorry that this happened to you in the my county, at the same time, I'm glad it happened to you *here* in the sense that the police response you got was the best you could have gotten, compared to the surrounding areas. Between the officers being on top of things, and the citizens calling 911 to say where they'd just seen the guy... the bad guys didn't stand a chance!

I'm glad you are okay, that you were not seriously injured during all of this.

Thank God for your safety and thanks for sharing your story. And thanks for supporting our law enforcement folk and thanks for your "testimony". Best of success to you and your lovely bride!!!!

________

"That man was Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Scott Ballard".

CLICK HERE FOR THE REST OF THE STORY

What is your solution or suggestion for addressing these facts?

Kevin "Hack" King

when for Christ's sake a picture is available. I can understand if we're trying to post a description, but for crying out loud, we got the guy in color!

Would have been much simpler to refer to the one caught as the "dude pictured on the left" and for those mentally impaired, use an arrow.

Just my two cents worth.

More patrols, more roadblocks. In my opinion, there are no easy answers.

That said, it's a good idea to lock your doors when riding around, and WATCH your surroundings.

Public floggings, public hangings will make even a fool think twice before committing a crime.

"Watch your surroundings"---what does that mean?

Others say: "be aware at all times!" What does that mean?

"Roadblocks." Is someone going to rob me in a road block?

"More Patrols." Where? You think it will help? Will you pay for the gas?

"Stiff sentences." At the road blocks or at the patrol places
or at the "aware" places?
Killers get life now most of the time---but killing continues!

I think what you want to say is as follows:
Arrest everyone you see who looks as if he doesn't belong here.
If the radio is loud (or the disc) arrest them and give them 20 years---unless they are from our town!
Unless they are Barbie Bandits, put them under the jail the first time. If Barbie Bandits, they obviously are just having fun!

Even Ray Charles can see the problem. Up till last year we never saw alcoholics holding up going out of business signs on the court house square and now it’s a weekly parade at the Pavilion all four corners 6, 8 we even counted 12 two weeks ago jockeying for position on each corner. Can you say Clayton County?

The juvenile delinquents from Clayton County are swarming all over our fine county finding easy marks. Can you say Clayton County School Board?

It’s a shame to waste those fine old oak trees around the Court House.

Our county leaders need to put a stop to this endless parade of clowns in our town.

Yes, patrols help. If they didn't, why have police patrols at all?

Roadblocks catch folks with outstanding warrants.

I realize you like to argue like an old fool, so I'm leaving it with you after those two points.

Please do not get me wrong, I feel they should tell who they are and there color, I also no longer wish to live in fayettedale. we are going to move. clayton county is implodeing and explodeing at the same time and no one has a clue what to do.

I live in the Pavallion area and that bothers me that all this is happening. In one sense i agree with everyone carry a gun but on the other hand we dont need 5000 self appointed police walking around.
I have taught Hand gun safety and more times then known the person carring the gun gets it taken away and it is used on them because the avarage citizen is not willing and able to pull the trigger.

where i was trained to and i would pull the trigger

I guess i was just more so venting that i grew up here and these issues of higher crime is going to continue due to the change in pop
and that is a fact and
that is the fact is black
sorry but that is true

shadowalker

Is it to prove your excellent C&P abilities?

When we first visited Fayetteville, we checked on the school system and the crime rate. We didn't want to purchase a home in an area where in a few years the value of our home would decrease. We spent time observing the shopping areas, entertainment possibilities in and near Fayetteville, etc. . . and we were pleased with what we observed. We purchased a home in 2004. The value of the home has increased (as well as the property taxes) We did notice the selling of drugs in the open in front of Tinseltown; and in the parking lots of other shopping areas. We felt that surely the law enforcement agencies are/were aware of this. We were amazed at how many of our new found neighbors and acquaintances were not aware of what was going on right in front of them! We did not attribute this to their 'countryness' - but to their lack of exposure to the 'drug world'. Fayetteville is a 'bubble' community - and that is why we live here after years of living in the Los Angeles area. Outstanding law enforcement is just one part of the solution to keeping Fayetteville a 'bubble'. The residents MUST BE MADE aware of what to look for - and report it to the authorities immediately. We are preyed upon because we are naive. We are not 'country'.

What in my comments made you "concerned"?

I made factual statements, and somehow you are "concerned"?

I'm not sure what "to country to recognize" means either. I grew up in Clayton County, moved to Henry County, and now live in Peachtree City, if that makes me "to counry to be concerned", so be it.

Where are you facts to back the statement about Fayette County teenagers being on drugs more than surrounding counties. I can point out facts about schools and test scores that would seem to say these kids in Fayette are doing better in school. Maybe it's the drugs, but I digress. Frankly, I would rather a kid smoke a joint and and eat some pizza than kidnap someone at gunpoint, maybe you disagree.

Oh well, at least you are "concerned" about our comments.

"Thanks for the last 20yrs. of keeping us safe from black on black crime from fulton, and clayton counties."

What in God's name does that mean? Are you saying they have not kept us safe from white on white crime? Are you saying they have dropped the ball on black on white crime? Or is your point that there is only black on black crime? I'm truly scratching my head here. Let's see: Some losers try to carjack a guy and unfortunately no one is there to blast them into the Old Testament. What, exactly , does their color have to do with it, and how do you treat crimes differently based on the complection of the criminal? I imagine you'd feel completely safe hiking in the North Georgia mountains if someone told you there weren't any blacks there. Sad. Really sad.

Kevin "Hack" King

or Fulton County.

It is because of violent crime. You don't want your family surrounded by it.

Not all crime is perpetuated by blacks or whites. Fulton and Clayton County both have violent crime that is off of the charts. If you watch the news it is mostly black on black crime. I'm not too proud to admit that I'm afraid of violent crime. I also think our cops deserve thanks and credit for keeping us safe from those 2 counties.

That is why I don't live there and it is why you don't live there either. It has been that way since I moved here, probably before that. We have lived in a "bubble" and we have been lucky that the bad guys for the most part want to avoid Fayette County. I believe they avoid Fayette County because of tough law enforcement.

If life is so great in those counties you and I wouldn't be so afraid to live there.

If I was a 12yr old girl I would be afraid of all old white men. Because the stats. say that is who the perverts are.

I know we have had this discussion before. Now stop by for a drink if you are in town.

PS: I would not feel safe hiking in the mountains, I have seen Deliverance and those backwards criminals were white to boot.

Last time we were in Asheville, we saw a T-shirt with this message:

"Paddle Faster. I hear banjo music!"

Oh, and when the Olympics were in Atlanta and the kayaking event was up on the Chatooga--the same river where Deliverance was filmed--Jeff Foxworthy said, "If Ned Beatty can't make it down that river without being molested, what chance do you think a Frenchman in parachute pants has?"

Sky is loosing any creditability ...fast!