Jefferson County Sheriff's Office To Take Over Fairfield PD

JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL — For more than 100 years, Fairfield has relied on the Fairfield Police Department to keep law and order in the city. However, amidst financial problems plaguing the city, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office will take over patrol duties in Fairfield.

Sheriff Mark Pettway, who began his law enforcement career in Fairfield, said in a press release that he is standing firm on a promise he made during his campaign to provide resources for cities as well as the unincorporated county.

"I have always had a passion for protecting others, and my commitment to expand the duties of my office is a reflection of that," Pettway said. "Any time that we can be of service to our neighboring communities, I am always on board for that and I’m thankful that we are in a place to help ensure that the Fairfield community remains safe."

The Fairfield City Council voted in 2016 to disband the city's police department and seek law enforcement services from the sheriff’s office, but Mayor Kenneth Coachman overruled the vote on the grounds that the department was his responsibility.

Since then, the city has been unable to fully recover financially.

"I have many relatives, friends and church family that live in the city of Fairfield and I want you to know that as a candidate I said I would do everything I can for the city of Fairfield and this is a sign of me keeping my promises to you," Pettway said in his news conference Friday.

The JCSO will begin duties in Fairfield effective Saturday.