Gadsden State Police to host free church safety and security training conference

The Gadsden State Community College Police and Public Safety Department is partnering with Cross Creek Community Church to host a Free Church Safety and Security Training Conference on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The conference will take place at Cross Creek Community Church, located at 4825 Highway 278 East in Hokes Bluff, and is designed to equip church leaders, security teams, volunteers and staff with the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen safety and preparedness within their congregations.

Led by experienced law enforcement professionals, this hands-on training will cover critical topics including tactical awareness, threat recognition, effective emergency communication, crisis management, evacuation procedures and use-of-force considerations. The conference aims to help churches proactively prepare for potential safety concerns while maintaining a welcoming and secure environment for their members.

Churches across the region are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their safety teams and improve response capabilities.

Registration Information:
Registration is free, but space may be limited.

Deadline to register: May 20, 2026

To register: Email crosscreekcc04@gmail.com and include your church name and total number of attendees.

“Serving, protecting, and leading with purpose has always been our mission—and that commitment extends beyond our campuses into the communities we are proud to serve,” said Jay Freeman, Police Chief at Gadsden State Community College.

“Places of worship should remain places of peace, but in today’s world, preparation is essential. This training is designed to empower church leaders and volunteers with the knowledge, awareness, and confidence needed to respond effectively in a crisis. We are excited to partner with Cross Creek Community Church to bring this important hands-on training to the region, and we look forward to seeing everyone there.”

For additional information contact Chief Freeman at 256-549-8611 or by email at jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu.