CONGRESSMAN HONORS SHERIFF’S SECRETARY WITH A TRAILBLAZER AWARD DURING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

On March 26, 2023, Juanita Threadgill, the Newton County Sheriff’s longtime secretary, was one of three women honored with a Trailblazer Award by Congressman Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., United States Representative of the 4th Congressional District in the State of Georgia, during Women’s History Month. This award was in recognition of her pioneering career and dedicated service to the greater Atlanta Metropolitan community.

Threadgill has been employed with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office for more than 35 years, serving in the administrations of three sheriffs. In 1988, she became employed with the Sheriff’s Office as a part-time Civil Division clerk under the administration of Sheriff Gerald Malcom, who served from 1976 until 1996.

Threadgill eventually became a full-time Civil Division clerk, but she also assisted as a radio communications dispatcher for the patrol deputies in the field. Her work as a civil clerk and radio communications dispatcher was exceptional. According to her colleagues, she was accommodating, effective, possessed a gratifying personality, and never complained.

During Threadgill’s time as a civil clerk, the Sheriff’s Office operated an independent dispatch center; however, due to staff deficiencies, one deputy divided his duties by serving in the Detention Center two nights and two nights as the radio communications dispatcher. One civilian person was assigned as the day-watch radio communications dispatcher. Since Ms. Threadgill was skilled and possessed experience as a radio communications dispatcher, she was able to provide assistance when needed. It was as if she filled every role within the Sheriff’s Office, according the Captain Marty Roberts.

Sheriff Joe Nichols, the former chief deputy, was elected Sheriff in 1996. Threadgill was officially appointed as Sheriff Nichols’ secretary. Although her official job title was the Sheriff’s secretary, she continued to utilize her competences and expertise in other areas when needed, especially during crucial situations.

Sheriff Joe Nichols served as Sheriff from year 1996 to 2008. Sheriff Ezell Brown was elected Sheriff in 2008 and assumed the role in January 2009. Since Sheriff Brown was familiar with Threadgill’s judgment, integrity, authenticity, and wisdom that he reappointed her as his secretary. Her colleagues were happy her reappointment.

Chief Jerry Carter stated, “Ms. Juanita is the pillar of the Sheriff’s Office; she knows the complete history of it and has the answer to practically every situation,” Deputy Chief Jerry Carter stated. “She is very friendly, always constant; she’s like the sunshine, great disposition, and never angry.”

Sheriff Brown was impressed by Threadgill’s professional communication skills, particularly her clear and friendly communication, and personable phone manner when dealing with internal and external stakeholders.

“Ms. Juanita had and continues to have a successful career because she always puts in the hardwork,” said Sheriff Ezell Brown. “I am familiar with her family, and I continue to value what she offers to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. She is so deserving of Congressman Hank Johnson’s ‘Trailblazer’ award. Congratulations to you, Ms. Juanita, for a job well done!”

Juanita Threadgill is married to Jack Threadgill, Sr., and together, they have four children — three girls and one boy; nine grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. She and her husband are faithful members of Stewart Community Church, located in Covington, Georgia, where the pastor is Reverend Jason Johnson.