Oftentimes, the beginning of a new year offers a chance to reflect over the ups and downs of the year before and highlight ways of creating more ups and fewer downs in the new year. Brookhaven and Lincoln County law enforcement addresses the ups and downs of 2014 and look forward to deeper connections with their respective communities in 2015.

“It was one of our toughest years dealing with the tragedies during the second half of the year,” Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing said.

He said although he admires the work his staff has done they’re constantly trying to look for ways to improve.

Brookhaven Police Chief Bobby Bell feels his department has had a decent year.

“Although its not where we want it to be, I think we’ve held it down in our community,” Chief Bell said.

Chief Bell said crime went up all across the country in 2014 and acknowledges that the Brookhaven community has had its share of things happen but assures the department is making sure it doesn’t become a regular thing for the city.

The chief commends his officers and department for the absence of reported house and store burglaries this past Christmas.

“I think it’s because of the way we patrol,” Chief Bell said describing how officers drive by businesses and check in periodically with clerks and store owners in the city.

Looking toward next year both Rushing and Bell look to increase the strength of ties with Lincoln County and Brookhaven residents.

“We’re always trying to find ways to serve the community,” Rushing said. “We want to let them know we’re here to serve as well as protect.”

Bell said he wants to get more involved with the community so residents can “see that we are people too, and we want the community to be safe and well also.”

In the upcoming months, the chief is looking to add more people to the department. He highlighted the many dedicated, young individual they’ve sent to the academy and the added service to the community they’ll provide upon their graduation.

Rushing said law enforcement is “an everyday job that you don’t just go home and lay down.” A sentiment further explained by his not having the time to think about a personal New Year’s resolution.

With a similar dedication to his job and community, Bell said he resolves to just be happy and work hard for the community in 2015.