GSP Helicopter Trip on Sept. 12
The following is a statement by Colonel George Ellis, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety and Commander of the Georgia State Patrol, concerning a helicopter trip by Governor Sonny Perdue on September 12, 2003:
Last night, WSB-TV aired a story related to Governor Perdue using a Georgia State Patrol helicopter for a trip to FortStewart on September 12, 2003. The TV report contained allegations of incomplete records and the transport of Governor Perdue’s son Jim to a high school football game in a Georgia State Patrol car. These points in the story are not true and were made by a former employee of the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety who lacked apparent knowledge of the facts or policies involved in this situation.
The Georgia State Patrol Aviation Unit provided a helicopter to transport Governor Perdue, Jim Perdue, a staff member of the Governor’s Office and TFC Kendrick Lowe, a member of the GSP Executive Security Detail to a meeting with President George Bush at FortStewart. The Executive Security Detail is charged by law with protection and transportation of the Governor and his immediate family.
Upon the return trip to Atlanta, the helicopter pilot flew to the Georgia State Patrol Post in Cumming to allow Jim Perdue to exit the helicopter. The staff member also exited the helicopter at this point since her personal car was at a nearby repair shop and ready for her pick up. TFC Lowe called the GSP Post and spoke with Sergeant Allen Marlowe, the Assistant Post Commander. He inquired if there was anyone available that could assist the staff member by giving her a ride to the repair shop for her car. Sgt. Marlowe took her to the repair shop. By policy, this was within his authority.
Jim Perdue was picked up at the post by his wife and he was not transported to a football game in a GSP patrol car as was alleged.
An allegation was made that GSP records were not truthful and complete. This also is false.
The Radio Operator’s Report does not reflect anything related to the helicopter landing or the transport to Cumming by Sgt. Marlowe because there was no radio traffic. This was direct telephone contact to Sgt. Marlowe by TFC Lowe.
The Pilot’s Flight Report does not reflect a stop in Cumming since the engine was not shutdown at that location. It is standard procedure to log only when the engine is shut down. The helicopter was on the ground for approximately three minutes and then continued on its way.
“I have reviewed the allegations made against the members of my Department and I have found no inappropriate actions or policy violations by anyone involved,” Colonel George Ellis, GSP Commander said Thursday.
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