THOMASVILLE — Thomasville police and Thomasville Post 12 Georgia State Patrol troopers will be keenly aware of what is happening during this week’s Rose Show and Festival events.

An increase in Thomasville Police Department patrol staffing will be enacted. TPD officers will wear yellow vests to make their presence more visible.

“Every year our main objective through this event is that citizens feel comfortable and safe and enjoy the festivities,” said Maj. Shane Harris, TPD patrol commander.

Officers will be posted in event areas on the lookout for criminal behavior and suspicious activity.

“We’re being diligent in our precautions,” Harris said. 

Post 12 troopers will be available to back up local law enforcement agencies.

“We will have extra troopers out on the main arteries going into town,” said Sgt. 1st Class John Vanlandingham, Post 12 commander.

Troopers will patrol U.S. 319, U.S. 84, U.S.19 and Ga. 122 to ensure safety inside and outside the city, Vanlandingham said.

Troopers will operate radar and look for distracted drivers, such as those looking at Google maps on their phones for directions to Rose Festival events, the commander said.

Pointing out that the traditional festival parade and some events in other locations will not take place this year, Capt. Chuck McDonald said the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office’s presence will not be needed as much as in past years.

“It will be normal patrol for the increased number of people in the city,” said McDonald, sheriff’s office patrol commander.

The sheriff’s office will assist Thomasville police where needed, McDonald added.