On April 2, 2012, on behalf of the Bartow Police Department, Chief Joe Hall accepted a donation of $6000 from Mrs. Rose Thornburg. Rosie’s gracious donation, is in honor and memory of her husband, Mr. Max Thornburg, who sadly passed away in November 2011. The donation has been designated toward purchasing Automated External Defibrillators or AED’s for the patrol units and first responders.
Over the years Max and Rosie have been exceptionally generous to the Bartow Police Department, having assisted the Police Department in the purchase of several significant items, including a 12 passenger van and trailer for the Explorer Unit, and two police K-9’s.
K-9 “Max”, appropriately named in honor of Max Thornburg, served in the patrol unit for 10 years, partnered with Officer Mike Quinn. During his career, “Max” was responsible for 276 criminal apprehensions including 51 narcotics arrests, burglary arrests and 2 homicide arrests.
K9 “Herc”, handled by Officer Greg Rhoden, retired with a total of 111 apprehensions in his career.
The purchase of the Explorer equipment was made possible by a 50/50 match between Max and Rosie and the Clear Springs Mine Company. The Bartow Police Explorer Program is offered to Bartow teens between the ages of 14-21 who are interested in law enforcement. Thanks to the contributions of these caring individuals, the Bartow Police Department is able to provide guidance to young men and women who want to make law enforcement a career.
Max and Rosie Thornburg’s support of the city and the police department has been greatly appreciated, and they are both in the most genuine way are giving back to the community that they love.
In honor of Max, and with much gratitude, the Bartow Police Department is thankful for their caring heart and generosity!
Thank you Max and Rosie!