Brookside officials took possession on Monday of three police cars that the city of Fultondale no longer needed.

Brookside already had four police cars, although two are in the shop for repairs.

Brookside Police Lt. Dennis McCoy said Brookside routinely assists Jefferson County deputies and helps neighboring cities and towns as needed.

Brookside has four full-time and three part-time police officers. Six months ago, the department started a new program that has also brought eight reserve officers on board.

McCoy said the three new cars will allow the additional personnel to be on the street more frequently.

Fultondale Police Chief Byron Pigg said the three 2002 Ford Crown Victorias have full police packages including radios, sirens, gun racks and other equipment.

One of the vehicles was hit by a tree during the April 27 tornado, which broke out the back windshield and bent the panel. However, that is the only repair the cars need.

Brookside will also get the cars re-striped. McCoy said Bevill State Community College students will do the body work and painting on the cars, so the cost will be minimal.