City Fellows Interns Pay a Visit to the Huntsville Police Department!

by Christina Biello

On Friday, the City Fellows traveled to the new Huntsville Police Department Headquarters, which opened in 2021. Senior Officer Craig and Corporal Sanders were kind enough to escort us through the building and inform us about the typical day-to-day life of a Huntsville Police officer and everything they do in the community.  

First, they showed us some of the artifacts they have in the foyer. They had incredible pieces of history, such as old polygraph machines, uniforms, and radios. It was interesting to glimpse the past and learn of the methods and technologies compared to today’s equipment.  

As we started to go inside, I was amazed by how beautiful the building was; it was very open, allowing much light to shine through the glass. As we went downstairs, we were taken to the training room, where we learned that each table was equipped with WiFi. We were also surprised to discover that this room serves as the primary location for city officials during emergencies.  

Next, Senior Officer Craig and Corporal Sanders led us to the board of the active incidents. They explained how the board worked, describing that it allows each officer to track their patrol colleagues and request backup when needed. Witnessing these “behind-the-scenes” aspects of the police department was genuinely fascinating. 

We were even taken to their gym, where we ran into the Assistant Chief, James Barnes. He helped give Cinthia tips as she tried to punch the punching bag. She did a great job; personally, I don’t think I would have done so well….  

Senior Officer Craig then guided us through the women’s locker room. She pointed out the spacious lockers and showers designated for each female officer’s use.

Additionally, she showed us a back room filled with a resting area designed for officers with demanding schedules who couldn’t return home overnight. This experience offered a deeper perspective on officers’ sacrifices to ensure our safety. Their willingness to work extended hours and remain on-site, foregoing the comfort of home, highlights their selfless dedication to prioritizing the community’s well-being above personal convenience.  

As our tour continued, we headed outside to see the SWAT tank “Pitbull.” Senior Officer Craig began to pull out the medieval-looking contraptions they use during operations, including my favorite, a battering ram labeled “knock knock.”

Each of us got a chance to hold it, and I was surprised that it weighed around 20-25 lbs. Even more surprising was when they shared that kindergarteners had also held it without trouble!  

After showing us the cool gadgets, they allowed us to climb inside the Pitbull.

It was particularly thrilling for Macey and Cinthia as they ventured into the “lookout hole.” They were both shocked by how fast it ascended and how high it elevated them.  

Additionally, Corporal Sanders gave Emily the run-down on starting the truck and even selecting the different sirens to play. This was eye-opening because we had been unaware of the variety of sirens officers could choose from.  

Senior Officer Craig and Corporal Sanders gave City Fellows interns a fantastic tour, offering us a peek into their daily lives and duties. I’m confident we all have a better perspective and insight into what the officers do to keep us in the community safe. We extend our sincere thanks to them both and the entire Huntsville, Texas, Police Department.