County sheriff's office needs used cell phones
Comet staff report

The Carroll County Sheriff's Office announced a partnership with the 911 Cell Phone Bank, a nonprofit organization that provides no cost emergency cell phones to law enforcement and victim service agencies nationwide.

Under the agreement, the sheriff's department collects cell phones to send to the 911 Cell Phone Bank for processing, valuation and re-marketing. This will provide the county with free emergency cell phones plus limited funding. The county receives a small amount of money for viable phones sent to the phone bank.

"They pay a little bit of money for good phones we send to them," sheriff Tony Burns said.

"We want to bring this program to the attention of the community and make them aware of how useful these used cell phones can be in fighting crime," said Burns. "With the Christmas season upon us, many may get a new phone as a gift. We would like to have that old cell phone."

According to a press release, nearly 600 law enforcement and community service organizations around the country participate in the program. Approximately 2,000 phones a month are donated to law enforcement and other agencies.

Burns said Carroll County contributed approximately 50 phones to the program so far. He said 10 new phones would be received for distribution soon. Distribution will be to senior citizens' complexes and centers. Victims of domestic violence known to the sheriff's department will also receive cell phones as they become available.

Residents who have used cell phones are encouraged to drop them off at 310 W. Main Street in Delphi. For more information contact Burns at (765) 564-2413.