KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — Parkgoers and greenway visitors in Kannapolis will see new faces regularly patrolling the outdoors.
Sydney Hunsucker and Jordan Young are two of the first park rangers in a recently-launched program to increase safety in some of Kannapolis’ most frequented places.
[ READ MORE: ‘It’s scary’: Suspect still at-large following sexual assault at McAlpine Creek Greenway ]
The park ranger program will provide an additional presence at recreational spaces around Kannapolis. Park rangers are specifically assigned to parks and greenways to patrol and assist in emergencies.
“Thousands of people visit our recreational facilities each week, whether it is the splash pad at Atrium Health Ballpark or a concert at Village Park,” said Kannapolis Police Chief Terry Spry. “The program allows us to keep our sworn personnel available for the more typical emergency situations we have such as accidents and so forth.”
[ READ MORE: Community on alert after assault on midtown Charlotte greenway ]
The program is part of the Kannapolis Police Department, and park rangers are non-sworn members of the KPD.
“This is also a program that is a gateway to becoming a police officer. The responsibilities of the job will give park rangers experiences that could lead to a career in law enforcement if they find they like the interaction and relationships we build in our positions,” Chief Spry said.
Both Sydney and Jordan said they love having an outdoor office and are excited to help the people of Kannapolis.
(WATCH: CMPD increases presence on city’s greenways after sexual assault reported)
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