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By Cole Trahan
Daily News

Georgia State Patrol Post 2 in LaGrange has a new post commander. Sgt. First Class Jay Thompson now oversees the daily routine of the post, ensuring that the missions of GSP and the Georgia Department of Public Safety are accomplished. His everyday work includes enforcing traffic laws, investigating vehicle crashes, and assisting other public safety agencies.

Thompson said that the position opened up after his predecessor, Scott Jeter, was promoted to lieutenant.

“The opening came up, and I requested a transfer, so I got it,” Thompson said.

Thompson started out as a deputy in Fayette County in 1989. He was there until 2002, when he joined GSP.

“After trooper school, I worked at the Newnan post. I was at the Newnan post until 2006, and then I was on the Criminal Interdiction Unit until I was transferred here back on May first,” said Thompson.

GSP’s Criminal Interdiction Unit works with other law enforcement agencies and drug enforcement programs to reduce drug trafficking in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Public Safety.

Thompson said he’s excited about his new position.

“This is an exceptional crew here at Post 2, and I’m looking forward to facing challenges with them and helping out the public here,” he said.

Though GSP primarily enforces traffic laws and investigates crashes, it also helps other public safety agencies “reduce criminal activity, apprehend those involved, and respond to natural and manmade disasters,” according to DPS. It’s divided into 52 posts.