Robert L. Jones, Chief of Police
YEAR END REPORT 2024
Chief Robert Jones was sworn in as the Chief of the Woodstock Police Department in March of 2022. With over 23 years of law enforcement experience, Chief Jones has served as a Chief executive for over 14 years in multiple Georgia communities, including Kingsland and Adairsville. Chief Jones was also a governor appointed Warden of the Carroll County Correctional Institution. Chief Jones has proven expertise in law enforcement, administration, community policing, and emergency management. He began his career in 1999 and has also served in many roles from Police Officer, Supervisory Roles, DEA Task Force Officer, to Chief Executive. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he led troops in both peace and combat missions worldwide. Chief Jones holds an Executive Certificate in Leadership and Management from Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, a Master’s in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University, a B.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University, an Associate’s in Law Enforcement from Thomas University, and in 2024 he graduated as apart of the 291st session of the FBI National Academy receiving a graduate certificate from The University of Virginia as well. He is also an Adjunct Professor at Columbus State University, teaching law enforcement executives as well as teaches for the Georgia Association of Chief’s of Police. Chief Jones also sits on the CMANS control board and the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, among others.
FROM THE DESK OF CHIEF ROBERT L. JONES
As the Chief of Police for the City of Woodstock, I am pleased to present the annual report for the Woodstock Police Department. Our department remains deeply committed to providing professional, responsive, and communitycentered law enforcement services to ensure the safety and well-being of all who live, work, and visit Woodstock.
In 2024, the Woodstock Police Department continued its focus on enhancing public safety through proactive policing, community engagement, and ongoing officer development. We believe in building strong, collaborative relationships with our community, and we are dedicated to earning the trust of our citizens through transparency, accountability, and exceptional service. Every day, our officers work hard to prevent crime, resolve conflicts, and address the diverse needs of our community.
Our officers are equipped with the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to serve effectively, ensuring that we continue to meet the high standards of safety and service that our community expects.
We recognize that our success depends on the partnerships we build with residents, businesses, and local organizations. By working together, we strengthen our ability to maintain a safe and welcoming environment in Woodstock. As we move forward, we remain committed to upholding the values of integrity, professionalism, and service excellence, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead to continue improving the quality of life for everyone in our community.
Thank you for your continued support and trust in the Woodstock Police Department. It is an honor to serve this great community, and we look forward to the continued partnership with our citizens in keeping Woodstock a safe, vibrant place for all.
COMMAND STAFF
The Command Staff at the Woodstock Police Department works closely with the Chief of Police to provide effective leadership, guidance, and support to our officers. Under the Chief's direction, the Command Staff ensures that all members of the department are equipped and empowered to serve the community with professionalism, integrity, and dedication. By fostering strong communication and collaboration, the Command Staff helps to maintain a high standard of public safety, responding to the needs of the community while supporting the growth and development of each officer. Together, they strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for all who live, work, and visit Woodstock.
Assistant Chief Brian Aligood
Assistant Chief Brian Aligood was sworn in with the City of Woodstock Police Department June 10, 2024.
Prior to his appointment, Assistant Chief Aligood served 18 years in various roles within the law enforcement profession with the Kingsland Police Department and St. Marys Police Department.
Assistant Chief Aligood began his career with the Kingsland Police Department where he served for 15 years in many roles within the agency including Criminal Investigations Sergeant and later Lieutenant. He ultimately was promoted to the rank of Police Captain before transferring to the St. Marys Police Department where he served prior to starting with the Woodstock Police Department. He holds both his Supervision and Management Certifications through Georgia POST along with his Intermediate and Crime Scene Technician Certifications. He is also Georgia POST Certified Instructor and a Computerized Voice Stress Analysts Certified Examiner.
Assistant Chief Aligood holds a Master’s in Public Safety Administrations from Columbus State University, a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Valdosta State University, and an Associates in Criminal Justice from Coastal Georgia Community College. He is a graduate of Camden County High School.
Assistant Chief Aligood is married to his wife of 15 years and has three children. He spends his off-time coaching with the Georgia 4H Safe Shooting Sports program and watching Georgia Bulldog and Buffalo Bills football.
Captain Captain Matthew O’Keefe Ronald Sinfelt
Captain O’Keefe grew up in a military family, living in various countries and states before settling in Marietta, Georgia, in 1992. He graduated from McEachern High School in 1994 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University in 1998. Recently, he completed his Master’s in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University’s Command College.
Captain O’Keefe began his career with the Woodstock Police Department on February 15, 1999, after graduating from the North Central Law Enforcement Academy. Over the years, he has served in various capacities, including Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, SOG Sergeant, and Patrol Lieutenant, before being promoted to Captain of Field Services. He is a certified instructor in multiple disciplines, including defensive tactics, firearms, and use of force, and has been instrumental in mentoring officers and advancing department training programs. In his current role, he oversees the department’s field operations, focusing on efficiency and excellence in community policing.
Throughout his career, Captain O’Keefe has received several awards and recognitions, including being named Supervisor of the Year twice, as well as receiving the Good Conduct Award and the Safe Driver Award. He holds certifications as a general instructor, defensive tactics instructor, firearms instructor, and use of force instructor, among others, and is committed to professional development and the implementation of cutting-edge training techniques within the department.
Captain O’Keefe has been married to his wife for 21 years and is the proud father of two grown children. In his spare time, he enjoys playing the guitar and watching classic sitcoms from the 1980s and 1990s.
Captain Ron Sinfelt is a 15-year veteran of the Woodstock Police Department. Capt. Sinfelt was tapped early on as a trainer and supervisor, one of the newest officers to rise to those responsibilities at the time. Capt. Sinfelt developed a focus on adult learning concepts and human behavior, eventually ascending to the director of training and recruiting for the agency, then a section commander in field services, and now the commander of the support services division Capt Sinfelt lead the department in becoming its first Force Science Analyst and Force Science deescalation instructor. Capt. Sinfelt created a leadership program for rising supervisors, and brought departmentally run in-service back to the agency. Additionally, Capt. Sinfelt collaborated with an amazing group of civilian and sworn employees to create a unique community engagement approach to social media, recently creating the “Fit for Duty” program that was featured in the Atlanta news market. Capt. Sinfelt is an instructor in multiple disciplines and is a nationally certified Force Science Analyst and realistic De-escalation instructor and holds an advanced POST certification Capt Sinfelt is a two-time recipient of the department’s supervisor of the year award, multiple lifesaving awards, Georgia Association of Chief’s of Police leadership award, departmental distinguished service award, and was nominated for a Carnegie Hero Medal for his actions taken in the line of duty.
Capt. Sinfelt is a 2009 graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Capt. Sinfelt is a Masters student at Columbus State University, and will be graduating this December. Finally, Ron’s favorite role is that of husband and father to their five children, including two twins.
ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION
Stephanie Mari Accreditation and Compliance Coordinator
The Woodstock Police Department has a strong commitment to maintaining high standards of law enforcement and public safety. In 2003, the department first achieved State of Georgia Certification through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, demonstrating its adherence to 108 rigorous standards that align with best practices and are tailored to Georgia's unique laws and procedures. This certification recognizes the implementation of policies and procedures that are both conceptually sound and operationally effective. Building on this foundation, the department earned National Accreditation in 2017 from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This prestigious accreditation program evaluates agencies based on four key areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services, ensuring that the department operates at the highest level of professionalism and effectiveness.
Both certifications reflect the department's ongoing dedication to excellence in law enforcement, ensuring it serves the community with integrity, accountability, and the utmost professionalism.
After the Woodstock Police Departments most recent CALEA assessment in October 2024, the Department was commended on having administrative processes in place that are routinely used by the agency to develop and update policies, procedures, and protocols that meet or exceed CALEA standards and State certification standards.
Lieutenant
Ron Hughes
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Support Services Division plays a pivotal role in enhancing the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the Woodstock Police Department. This division houses several specialized units that are integral to both the daily operations and long-term strategic goals of the department. These units include Training, Investigations, Special Operations, Technical Services, and civilian support personnel. Each support services unit contributes in unique ways to support the work of frontline officers and strengthen public safety throughout the city.
By efficiently managing vital administrative functions, such as processing reports, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with various regulations, the Support Services Division provides essential support to law enforcement personnel in the field. In addition, the division retains a crime analyst who is dedicated to monitoring and interpreting crime trends and patterns, which allows the department to respond proactively to emerging threats and allocate resources where they are needed most.
The Special Operations Division plays a key role in fostering strong relationships between the police and the residents they serve. By prioritizing transparency, education, and open communication, this unit works to build trust and mutual respect between law enforcement and the community. Through community outreach programs, public safety education initiatives, and collaborative partnerships with local organizations, the division ensures that the voices of residents are heard, and their needs are addressed.
The division’s commitment to collaboration, service, and innovation enhances the department’s ability to meet both the current and future needs of the Woodstock community.
OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Woodstock Police Department is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and takes all matters of accountability and professionalism very seriously. Investigations are initiated through three key channels: citizen reports, professional responsibility, and supervisor accountability. In 2024, a total of 46 investigations were launched spanning 64 potiental policy violations. Below is a chart outlining each of those investigations. All internal affairs were thoroughly investigated to ensure complete transparency and adherence to our standards.
Citizen Initiated
Professional Responsibility
Supervisor Accountability
RECRUITMENT
Sergeant Dennis Hornes
The core values of the Woodstock Police Department service to our communities, reverence for the law, commitment to leadership, integrity in all we say and do, respect for people, and quality through continuous improvement—serve as the foundational principles guiding the organization’s mission and actions. These values are not merely aspirational statements; they are actively considered during the interview process for prospective applicants. Each candidate is rigorously assessed to determine how well they resonate with these core values, as they are critical for building a police force that is not only effective but also deeply connected to the community it serves. By embedding these values into the hiring process, the Woodstock Police Department strives to create a team that embodies its mission and enhances the quality of service provided to the public.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
The Special Operations division of the Woodstock Police Department is a dynamic and multifaceted segment dedicated to enhancing community safety and engagement through a variety of specialized units.
The Auxiliary Unit consists of trained volunteers who support the department in various capacities, providing assistance during events and emergencies. This unit strengthens community ties and promotes public safety through their active involvement. The Cadet Program is aimed at youth aged 14 to 20, fostering leadership skills and providing hands-on experience in law enforcement careers. This program helps build a positive relationship between young people and police officers, encouraging civic engagement. The Neighborhood Services Unit focuses on community policing, working directly with residents to address quality-of-life issues. This unit builds trust within the community and collaborates on solutions that enhance neighborhood safety. The Reserve Unit is composed of trained volunteers who supplement regular officers. This unit is vital for maintaining a strong police presence, particularly during large-scale events and emergencies, ensuring that the community feels secure. The Traffic Enforcement Unit and H.E.A.T. Unit are dedicated to ensuring road safety by enforcing traffic laws, reducing accidents, and addressing issues such as speeding and driving under the influence. Their efforts significantly contribute to safer roadways in Woodstock.
Together, these specialized units within the Special Operations division reflect the Woodstock Police Department's commitment to proactive policing, community engagement, and maintaining a safe environment for all residents. By leveraging the unique strengths of each unit, the department effectively responds to incidents and collaborates with the community to foster trust and enhance overall safety
Sergeant
Jeremy Cochran
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Brewed Connections
Citizens Public Safety Academy
Coffee With a Cop
Cops on Donut Shops
Fit For Duty
Night to Shine
National Night Out
Shop With A Hero
Teen Public Safety Academy
You’ve Been Egged
H.E.A.T UNIT
In October, 2024 The Woodstock Police Department was invited to participate in the H.E.A.T. (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) program, a collaborative initiative launched by the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and local law enforcement agencies. This program aims to combat impaired and aggressive driving, which is a leading cause of serious crashes and fatalities on Georgia's roadways. By joining H.E.A.T., the Woodstock Police Department has joined a multi-jurisdictional task force dedicated to reducing the number of impaired driving incidents by 10% and enforcing laws against aggressive driving. The program not only focuses on enforcement but also emphasizes public education, equipping officers with resources to inform residents about state laws regulating aggressive and impaired driving. This partnership has enhanced community safety by ensuring that Woodstock’s roadways are better patrolled and that drivers are more aware of the risks associated with reckless driving, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
TRAFFIC UNIT
The Traffic Unit of the Woodstock, GA Police Department is a specialized division dedicated to enhancing roadway safety and enforcing traffic regulations within the city. This unit is responsible for investigating traffic accidents, monitoring compliance with speed limits and aggressive driving laws, conducting DUI checkpoints, and implementing community education initiatives regarding safe driving practices. Through these efforts, the Traffic Unit aims to reduce the incidence of traffic-related accidents, improve public safety, and foster a higher quality of life for residents and visitors in Woodstock.
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
The Woodstock Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division (CID) plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our community by thoroughly investigating all criminal cases. Our team of skilled and experienced detectives works diligently on a wide range of investigations, from property crimes to serious offenses such as violent crimes, narcotics, and fraud. In addition to internal collaboration, the division maintains strong working relationships with other local, state, and federal agencies, enhancing our ability to tackle complex cases and share critical intelligence. Detectives in the CID are committed to upholding justice, following through on leads, conducting interviews, analyzing evidence, and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Their dedication to the community, coupled with advanced investigative techniques and resources, helps bring closure to victims and keeps our city a safer place for all residents.
Crimes Against Persons: actions committed against the will of an individual.
Crimes Against Property: involves theft or destruction of another's property.
Crimes Against Society: represent society's prohibition against engaging in certain types of activity and are crimes against the state or moral turpitude.
REPORTED CRIME
In 2024, the Woodstock Police Department achieved an impressive overall crime clearance rate of 37.66%, exceeding the 2023 national average of 27.79%.
Group A reported crime was down by 20.83% compared to 2023.
National Incident Based Reporting System - Group A Reportable Offenses
TRAINING
Training Hours: 14,132
Instruction Hours: 1,097
In 2024, the members of the Woodstock Police Department completed over 14,000 hours of training, with over 1,097 of those hours instructed by our own Woodstock Police Department Training Staff. This extensive training includes both specialized courses and participation in the Governor’s initiative training, highlighting our department's unwavering commitment to continuous professional development and service excellence. We understand that ongoing education is essential for maintaining the highest standards of public safety and ensuring our officers are prepared to meet the evolving needs of our community.
In addition to the comprehensive training hours, several of our officers further enhanced their expertise through prestigious programs aimed at strengthening leadership and operational skills. Officers graduated from renowned programs such as the FBI National Academy, the Chiefs School through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, and the Command College offered by Columbus State University. We also have officers currently enrolled in the Professional Management Program at Reinhardt College. These programs provide vital education in leadership, strategic decision-making, and specialized knowledge, all of which directly benefit the safety and well-being of the Woodstock community.
Moreover, we are proud to announce the certification of two dual-purpose K9 handlers and one Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) K9 handler, expanding our department’s specialized capabilities and enhancing our response to a variety of law enforcement challenges.
Lastly, we had five officers successfully complete the basic mandate academy at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC), further ensuring that our team is equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to serve our community effectively and cementing the future of the Woodstock Police Department.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
Sergeant
William Vincent
The Technical Services Unit leads the Woodstock Police Department's technological advancement and infrastructure management, overseeing both an 88-vehicle fleet and the implementation of critical law enforcement technology systems. The unit manages essential programs including body-worn cameras, in-car cameras, and e-citation systems, while maintaining sophisticated records management protocols.
Through the Terminal Agency Coordinator and Records Specialist, the unit ensures strict compliance with state and federal regulations for records management and terminal operations. In 2024, the division efficiently processed 1,931 open records requests and completed 277 background checks, demonstrating its commitment to public service and information security.
The department's partnership with Flock Safety has significantly enhanced public safety capabilities, recording 5,513 Flock hits and achieving 17 Flock successes throughout the year. These successes have directly contributed to various criminal investigations and operational objectives, proving the value of strategic technological investments.
A major milestone was reached in June 2024 with the successful transition to CentralSquare's integrated platform. This implementation consolidated multiple operational processes into a unified system, significantly improving departmental efficiency and streamlining daily operations while maintaining the highest standards of law enforcement service delivery.
FIELD OPERATIO
The Woodstock Police Department’s Field Operations Division plays a vital and proactive role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our community. This division, which encompasses both Uniform Patrol Services and the Canine Unit, is committed to providing a highly visible and responsive presence throughout the city, offering rapid response to emergencies and addressing a range of law enforcement needs. The officers assigned to Uniform Patrol Services are dedicated to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors, routinely patrolling areas, and responding promptly to calls for service. By being present in the community, they build a sense of trust and reliability that fosters positive relationships between law enforcement and the public. The Field Operations Division works closely with the community to foster open lines of communication and encourage collaboration between police officers and residents. This partnership helps ensure that the needs of the community are understood and addressed, while also promoting public safety initiatives and crime prevention efforts. By prioritizing engagement, proactive policing strategies, and rapid response capabilities, the division plays an integral part in maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone in Woodstock. Their ongoing efforts strengthen community trust, enhance public safety, and help create a welcoming atmosphere where residents can live, work, and thrive.
UNIFORMED PATROL
Lieutenant Mike deCocq
Sergeant Sergeant
Joseph LeCour
Alpha Shift
Jason Swanson
Charlie Shift
Lieutenant
Robert Johnson
Sergeant Sergeant
Justin Thorpe Nikoulas Petit-Alleyne
Bravo Shift
Delta Shift
CANINE UNIT
The Woodstock Police Department's Canine Unit is an integral component of the department’s law enforcement strategy, utilizing specially trained canines to assist in various policing efforts. This unit enhances the department's capabilities in narcotics detection, tracking missing persons, and apprehending suspects. The canine teams undergo rigorous training to ensure they can perform effectively in a variety of situations, thereby increasing officer safety and community protection. Additionally, the Canine Unit plays a vital role in community outreach, participating in educational programs and demonstrations that foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the public. By leveraging the unique skills of trained canines, the unit contributes significantly to the overall safety and security of the Woodstock community.
Training hours
COLLABORATION IN AND AROUND WOODSTOCK
The Woodstock Police Department places a strong emphasis on joining forces with our community partners and actively participates in several multi-agency task forces to enhance public safety and address regional challenges. These partnerships include the Cherokee MultiAgency Narcotics Squad (CMANS), a full-time, multi-jurisdictional task force dedicated to conducting undercover narcotics operations across Cherokee County. Additionally, the department has two officers on the Cherokee Multi-Agency SWAT Team, a multi-jurisdictional unit where Woodstock helps provide specialized tactical support in critical situations throughout the county. The department is also an active participant in the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, further strengthening efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region and build relationships with federal partners. Through these collaborative efforts, the Woodstock Police Department seeks to forge critical relationships outside of our city in order to build an effective approach to public safety for our great city and beyond.
PROMOTIONS
Sergeant
Lieutenant
Detective
Lieutenant
Sergeant Jason Swanson
JoAn Willingham
Corporal
Paul Bennett
Justin Thorpe
Corporal
Ledarrion Poole
Robert Johnson
Ronald Hughes
Detective
Matthew Godfrey
Lieutenant Ron Hughes Supervisor of the Year
AWARDS
Officer Caylah Molley Rookie of the Year
Audrey Jones Civilian of the Year
Officer Justin Reynolds Officer of the Year
Chief Robert L. Jones
Woodstock,
Woodstockga.gov/police