Staff Writer

A $115,000 grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs has outfitted a seven-man Special Response Team for Pike County.

On Thursday, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department showed off an impressive display to the United States Department of Justice’s program director and ADECA officials.

The large courtroom adjacent to the Sheriff’s Department offices was used to display protective shields, goggles, helmets, weapons and other equipment that will be used if an emergency situation arises and deputies have to enter.

"They were here to look at how we spent the money," Sheriff Russell Thomas said.

He said the officials were "very impressed" and commented on how "wisely" the grant money was spent.

"We bid vehicles and the entry team gear to get the best price and equipment available, to date," Thomas said.

"The county put up a $11,000 match. We couldn’t have even bought one vehicle with $11,000."

With the funds, the department was able to purchase weapons, protective equipment and three 2002 Ford Explorers.

"I hope we never have to use it other than to train," Thomas said.

But, in the event a hostage situation does occur, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department will be outfitted for it.