CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The New Providence Community Policing Center (NPCPC) is at it again! Another brand new bicycle has been donated.

In November of last year, Mark Baggett and his son Neil Baggett, co-owners of Riverside Bicycle Shop in Clarksville, donated a bike from their shop to support the efforts of the NPCPC.

CPD’s Sgt Johnny Ferguson and Officer Jeff Derico, advisers for the NPCPC in giving out the bike donations for four years, made the decision to reach out to Northwest High School to give away a bike to a deserving student. In December 2015, Officer Derico contacted School Resource Officer Deputy Michael Howard from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office for assistance in finding a student. Without hesitation, Deputy Howard started the process of selecting a perfect candidate. Deputy Bryan Green, the current SRO, has been involved in completing the process.

After Officer Derico had contacted the SRO at NWHS, the Principal Theresa Muckleroy, teachers, and staff collaborated in finding a deserving student. The JROTC students were included in the decision-making process. 1st Sergeant James Lewis had all of his JROTC students explain who would be the best candidate and why.

All parties involved decided that Shawntae Nelson was a great candidate, stating, “She walks to school and she lost her bike after it was damaged from being hit by a car, and it had not been replaced.” Also, they all agreed that she was an outstanding student and an amazing person.

On April 5, Sgt Ferguson, Officer Derico, Deputy Green, and Principal Muckleroy presented Shawntae with the bike.

Shawntae appeared to be surprised. If you were there to witness her reaction, you would understand why she was chosen. She was humble and very appreciative.

Along with the bike and helmet, Sgt Ferguson and Officer Derico bought a few more accessories, which included a lock and gloves.

Speaking on behalf of both the CPD and the MCSO, we are happy to help deserving students like Shawntae. The smile on her face lit up the halls of NWHS.

Special thanks to Mark Baggett and his son Neil Baggett at Riverside Bicycle Shop for donating the bike! Also, special thanks to the students and staff at Northwest High School for participating in the bike giveaway!


Photos courtesy of CPD