City News

Every day, the men and women of the Tuscaloosa Police Department tell their loved ones goodbye, never knowing if they will return home.  For every officer, never knowing the clear and present dangers is part of the mission and what sets them apart – It is what makes them heroes.

Never knowing when a routine traffic stop is going to turn tragic.

Never knowing the true threats in a response to a domestic violence call.

Never knowing when chaos requires a split-second decision with far-reaching consequences.

Never knowing what is behind a door when serving a warrant.

In the shadow of dangers, our officers serve because they believe in duty - of oath - of loyalty.  Within their DNA, there is a devotion to citizens which they have sworn to protect.  Investigator Dornell Cousette is not coming home because of his fidelity to service and his willingness to sacrifice all.

In the midst of this tragic loss, we are duty-bound to do more, much more; however, we can start tonight by simply doing this for our heroes at TPD: say thank you!  Thank you to the men and women of the Tuscaloosa Police Department.  Thank you for your service, but not just that, thank you for your fearlessness, to go out the door day after day after day.  Thank you to your families who must bear the burden of sacrifice.  Thank you for being the peacemakers even in the cruelest of circumstances.  To all the heroes who protect and serve Tuscaloosa, we say thank you.                                                                                                                                      

To Investigator Cousette, your watch has ended, but your legacy will never fade – You have set a standard and we will follow.  On behalf of the City Council and the people of Tuscaloosa, we say thank you, as we give honor to God for your life and we ask for His peace and mercy upon your family.