The City of Valdosta’s Public Works Director Larry Ogden and Right of Way Supervisor Branam Johns have formally recognized the City’s Right of Way crew for their instrumental assistance in a homicide investigation recently led by the Valdosta Police Department. 

On the morning of Thursday, August 23, Public Works Director Larry Ogden honored the Right of Way crew for their outstanding contribution to the investigation, highlighting the importance of interdepartmental cooperation in ensuring public safety. 

The commendation comes after the Valdosta Police Department (VPD) received crucial information regarding possible evidence related to a homicide that occurred earlier in the summer. The evidence was believed to be located in an extensively overgrown area on the 1100 block of Old Statenville Road. Detectives had previously searched the area but were hindered by dense vegetation, including thick briars, bushes, and vines. 

After receiving the new information, VPD detectives returned to the site, but quickly realized that further assistance was necessary to clear the overgrowth and proceed with the search. Public Works Director Larry Ogden and Angela Bray from the Engineering Department were contacted for support. 

Responding without hesitation, members of the Public Works and Engineering Departments arrived at the scene with the required equipment to cut through the dense foliage. Despite the intense heat, the team worked diligently to clear the area, enabling detectives to continue their search. The recognized members of the Right of Way crew included James Tripp, David Turner, Howard Hines, and Dan Robinson. 

Public Works Director Larry Ogden expressed his pride in the team, "I am incredibly proud of our Right of Way crew for their quick response and hard work in such challenging conditions. Their dedication to supporting our detectives in this investigation exemplifies the commitment we have to our community’s safety. This was a true team effort, and it’s an honor to work alongside such dedicated professionals." 

Right of Way Supervisor Branam Johns also commended the team's efforts, "Our team was ready to assist without hesitation because we understand the importance of every role in ensuring public safety. Clearing that area was a difficult task, but the determination and teamwork displayed by everyone involved made it possible." 

The collaborative effort demonstrated by city employees was commended by VPD Chief Leslie Manahan in a letter of gratitude. "We could not have conducted this search without all of the assistance. The teamwork shown by the employees of the City of Valdosta was amazing," Chief Manahan stated. 

The City of Valdosta extends its appreciation to all involved in this operation, emphasizing the value of teamwork in overcoming challenges and serving the community.