New chief of South Fulton promises repeat offender crackdown

SOUTH FULTON, Ga. - As the new police chief of the City of South Fulton was officially sworn in, Chief Keith Meadows promises a crackdown on repeat offenders behind car break-ins and property crimes. 

"We want to make sure we're targeting the right people. We frankly want to get them out of our community," Meadows said. 

In a sit-down interview with FOX 5 News, Meadows said the same criminals behind the "slider" crimes at gas stations, car break-ins and home break-ins are often arrested, and when they bond out, commit the same crimes. 

"When they get out-- the first thing I want them to see is a City of South Fulton police officer," he said, ensuring the criminals know they are under surveillance. 

Wednesday night, several officers were sworn in, bringing up the number to 95; the city can employ 152 officers.

 Meadows said he promises his officers will engage with community members and neighbors in the areas they serve. 

A phone app is also in the works for residents in the City of South Fulton, allowing residents to view alerts and upload surveillance pictures and photos of people committing crimes.