New south precinct for Richmond County deputies - WFXG FOX54 Augusta - Your News One Hour Earlier

Lieutenant Moore can't get enough of Richmond County Sheriff's Office new South Precinct.

"This is my office here, and I love it," Lt. Moore said.

He and several other deputies moved into the new facility on Mike Padgett Highway from the South Gate precinct behind K-Mart on Gordon Highway.

Sheriff Richard Roundtree says a stronger police presence further south will help reduce crime in that region.

"Crime takes the path of least resistance," Sheriff Roundtree said. "So we hope that criminals will want to stay away from the south side."

The new precinct houses RCSO's road patrol, crime suppression team and special ops division. Deputies say the new location expands their presence in the area and ultimately helps them better serve the community.

"Quicker we have access to the highways, we can get to these beats quicker and respond to calls quicker," Lt. Moore said.

The Sheriff's Office was able to purchase this building for $10, and an extra $250,000 for renovations."

"It is such a surprise to me and such a great job that was done out here," said former Sheriff Ronnie Strength.

Former Sheriff Strength helped get the project started while he was in office. He says he was a little apprehensive about the cost at first. But the department was able to stay within budget.

And for deputies settling in, they're already calling it their new home away from home.