FRANKLIN, Ind. — Franklin Community Schools (FCS) announced the official launch of its new, dedicated police department during a joint meeting with the Franklin City Council on Monday, August 24.
Led by Chief Brian Gabel, a retired Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department veteran with over 20 years of law enforcement experience, the new department replaces previous law enforcement coverage arrangements. The district has committed to maintaining a staff of six officers moving forward.
The department achieved a major milestone as its first School Resource Officer, Nathan Wooten, graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA). A second officer is scheduled to begin the intensive 16-week training program.
During this transition, the department will continue working in close partnership with local city officials and law enforcement to ensure student safety across the district:
- FCS Police Department Chief (Retired IMPD Chief Brian Gabel)
- School Resource Officer (SRO Nathan Wooten)
- SRO Candidate (Enrolling in 16-week ILEA training)
FCS expressed gratitude to Mayor Steve Barnett and Chief Cochran for their continued partnership, which includes providing an officer at Custer Baker Intermediate School throughout the transition period.
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