January 2024

NCSO January 2024 newsletter

A MOMENT WITH NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY Since 2015, January 9th of each year is recognized as Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (LEAD).

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, as per the Holidays Calendar, offers an opportunity for citizens to unite and express gratitude towards local law enforcement. It signifies a day where individuals can acknowledge the challenging nature of police work and show their appreciation for officers’ dedication.

On this incredibly special day, we come together to acknowledge the selfless service of law enforcement officers nationwide. The sacrifices made by these valiant individuals often go unnoticed, and LEAD serves as a reminder of the important role they play in maintaining the safety and security of our neighborhoods.

Beyond recognition, it fosters collaboration between law enforcement officers and the community, contributing to the shared goal of creating safer and more secure neighborhoods. This day encourages a collective effort to understand and support the challenges confronted by law enforcement, promoting a sense of unity and cooperation, for the enhancement of our communities.

As we gather our thoughts and energies on this occasion, as the Sheriff of Newton County and President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. It is truly a day set aside to honor the dedication and commitment of the courageous men and women, who wear the badge, protecting our communities and upholding the values that define the very fabric of our society.

I invite and encourage the Newton County community to show its appreciation and support for our officers, fostering a stronger partnership between law enforcement and citizens. Together, we can create a safer, and more inclusive future.

Our deputies at the Newton County Sheriff’s Office demonstrate resilience and courage daily. They face unpredictable situations with professionalism, ensuring our community remains a safe place. As we embark on a new year filled with opportunities and challenges, wwwwI am reaching out to you with a

sense of pride and gratitude, recognizing the exceptional dedication and sacrifice that each member of our law enforcement community contributes to the safety and well-being of Newton County.

As we commemorate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, it is essential to reflect on the relationship between law enforcement and the community. In Newton County, we are fortunate to witness a strong bond between our officers and the citizens they serve. This collaboration is not just crucial; it is the foundation upon which we build a safer and more secure future.

Effective law enforcement is a shared responsibility, and the success of our efforts is connected to the active participation of our community members. When law enforcement and communities work in harmony, we create an environment where crime is short-lived, problems are solved collaboratively and the overall quality of life is enhanced for everyone.

To strengthen this partnership, we must foster open lines of communication between law enforcement and the community. We encourage citizens to engage with our officers, attend community meetings and actively participate in programs designed to build trust and understanding.

We are committed to transparency and accountability, and we welcome constructive feedback. By working together, we can address concerns, dispel misconceptions and collectively create an environment where safety and justice prevail.

Education is a powerful tool in building bridges between law enforcement and the community.

Through outreach programs, workshops and community events, we aim to educate the public about law enforcement procedures, the challenges we face,and the role each individual plays in maintaining a safe community.

Engaging in community-driven initiatives, such as community policing and youth outreach programs, allows us to establish positive relationships early on. By investing in the education and empowerment of our community members, we pave the way for a brighter future where understanding and collabora-

SHERIFF BROWN tion thrive.

As you are aware, our community is filled with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Embracing this diversity enriches the strength of our community and enhances the effectiveness of law enforcement.

It is essential to ensure that our officers receive continuous training and continues to foster an environment of inclusion where every individual feels respected and valued. Through inclusive practices, we can bridge gaps, break down stereotypes and build a foundation of trust that transcends cultural and social divides.

On National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, I extend a heartfelt invitation to the Newton County community to actively participate in activities that express gratitude for the dedicated service of our law enforcement officers.

Simple gestures such as sending a note of thanks, participating in community events or expressing support on social media can go a long way in boosting morale and acknowledging the sacrifices our officers make each and every day.

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, Georgia

Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the importance of law enforcement in our community and commit ourselves to building a future where safety, justice and unity prevail. By working together, we can overcome challenges, strengthen our bonds and create a community where everyone feels safe and valued.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the members of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office for their tireless dedication. Your commitment to serving and protecting our community is truly commendable, and I am honored to stand alongside you.

about the agency The goal of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office is “to be recognized as the kind of professional organization that values, respects, and honors the rights and dignity of the entire community. Through an abundance of collaborative efforts, the NCSO is committed to improving life in every aspect for its citizens, businesses, schools, colleges/universities and visitors.”

The Newton County Sheriff's Office is located at 15151 Alcovy Road in Covington, Georgia. From I-20, take Exit 92 onto Alcovy Road and travel north on Alcovy Road for approximately one mile and cross over Highway 142. The Sheriff's Office will be on the left.

The administrative office hours for the Newton County Sheriff's Office are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding county holidays.

The Newton County Jail is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

agency ’ s contact numbers 678-625-1403 SHERIFF’S SECRETARY 678-625-1401 JAIL INFORMATION 678-625-1420 JAIL FAX 678-625-1450 INVESTIGATIONS 678-625-1412 INVESTIGATION FAX 678-625-1451 PATROL UNIT 678-625-1410 TRAFFIC UNIT 678-625-1469 WARRANT UNIT 678-625-1411 WEST SIDE PRECINCT 770-788-7812 EAST SIDE PRECINCT 770-243-8227 TIP LINE 678-625-5007

GENERAL INFORMATION

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SHERIFF BROWN GIVES SPEECH AT THE 2024 GSA CONFERENCE In January, Georgia Sheriffs’ Association (GSA) President Sheriff Ezell Brown gave the following speech to more than 100 Georgia sheriffs during the first 2024 GSA Conference in Braselton, Ga.: As we gather here today for the opening meeting of the year 2024, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride to address the dedicated men and women who form the backbone of our noble organization and profession. It is truly an honor to stand before you as President and I extend my heartfelt greetings to every sheriff and every member of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association.

As we embark on this year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of the past and the challenges that lie ahead. Together we have formed a greater union and made significant strides for our organization.

We have also faced adversity head on, standing strong in the face of uncertainty. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed, and I am proud to lead such an outstanding group of individuals. As we chart our course for the upcoming year, I am encouraged about the opportunities that lie ahead. Let us embrace innovation, adapt to change and continue to evolve as guardians of justice.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude for the trust you have placed in me to serve as your President. It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly, and I am eager to collaborate with each of you to make this year an extraordinary one. Let us march forward with a united front, not focusing all our energy fighting the old but on building the new.

Thank you for your dedication, your service and your commitment to the principles that define us as sheriffs and

as “Guardians of Justice”. Our deepest condolences are extended to the Spaulding County Sheriff, Sheriff Darrell Dix, and his dedicated personnel in the tragic loss of Sergeant Marc McIntyre who made the ultimate sacrifice on December 9, 2023, after serving 25 years. As your community mourns the loss, we mourn with you.

To the Coweta County Sheriff, Sheriff Lenn Wood, and his committed personnel, we offer our heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Deputy Eric Minix, who heroically gave his life in a chase on January 4, 2024. His bravery and sacrifice will forever be remembered in the hearts of those he served.

As we honor the fallen today of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, they will forever be remembered for their heroic sacrifice.

NCSO CONDUCTS NEW YEAR’S EVE SAFETY ROAD CHECKS

On New Year’s Eve, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Traffic and Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) Units, with assistance from Covington Police Department and Georgia State Patrol, conducted safety road checks throughout Newton County to not only ensure safe driving but to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by impaired driving. NCSO, CPD and GSP made eight DUI arrests and issued 50 citations, which included seatbelt violations.

The New Year’s Eve safety road checks were very successful in removing impaired drivers from the roadway in addition to educating all drivers on responsible driving behavior.

The NCSO H.E.A.T. Unit, a grant-funded program, was created to combat crashes, injuries and fatalities caused by impaired driving and speeding, while also increasing seatbelt use and educating the public about traffic safety and the dangers of DUI. For more information about the H.E.A.T. program or any other Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) campaign, visit www.gahighwaysafety.org.

C.H.A.M.P.S. PROGRAM GRADUATES MORE THAN 250 STUDENTS Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office C.H.A.M.P.S. instructors — Deputies Tim Smith, Michael Gregg and Kimberly Cox — graduated more than 250 students from the agency’s Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety (C.H.A.M.P.S.) program during multiple in-person graduations held at Newton County elementary schools during the month of January.

December’s C.H.A.M.P.S.’s graduations were held in the following Newton County Elementary Schools: Newton County STEAM Academy, South Salem and Flint Hill. The C.H.A.M.P.S. program is taught to every fifth grader in the Newton County School System with subject matters to include: Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Abuse Prevention; Gangs and Violence; Peer Pressure/Bullying; Internet Safety; Methamphetamine; and Cocaine.

The C.H.A.M.P.S. instructors, who are certified to teach by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, tailor the lesson plans based on each of the school’s needs. It is the goal of the instructors to teach the students what they need to be successful in the future and how to avoid the obstacles they will face along the way. Additionally, Sheriff Brown always challenges the C.H.A.M.P.S. students to be NBA Stars — Never Be Arrested.

Sheriff Brown and the Sheriff’s Office acknowledge Newton County School System Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley, III; the Newton County Board of Education; and the principals, teachers and school staff at each of the Newton County Elementary Schools for their part in making the C.H.A.M.P.S. program a success.

SHERIFF BROWN PARITICPATES IN ANNUAL MLK CELEBRATION On Jan. 14, 2024, Sheriff Ezell Brown brought greetings and participated in the 39th Annual Newton County Celebration of the Reverend, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., held at Newton High School.

“Dr. King led a life of service, where he fought against racial discrimination in America,” said Sheriff Brown. “Because of him, we were able to build a better life for our children and our children’s children.”

The Annual Newton County Celebration of the Reverend, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. recognizes and celebrates individuals and organizations who continue to provide peace and unity in Newton County. There were more than 200 people in attendance during this year’s celebration.

SHERIFF BROWN SWEARS IN EIGHT NEWLY-HIRED EMPLOYEES

In January, Sheriff Ezell Brown administered the Oath of Office to eight newly-hired employees during a ceremony held inside the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Training Room. The employees who took the Oath of Office were Intern Marley Stephenson, Deputy Simeon Bolden, Detention Officer Sherrie Sweet, Deputy Tyrique Woods, Deputy Walker Shelnutt, Deputy Meyleeng Rodriguez-Caro, Detention Officer Darrell Hampton and Administrative Coordinator Carole Thomas.

NCSO CPL. STEVE WALDEN RETIRES

Newton County Sheriff’s Office Cpl. Steve Walden retired after serving the Newton County community for more than 18 years and more than 33 years with the Atlanta Police Department.

On Jan. 29, 2024, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO personnel honored Cpl. Walden during a retirement celebration held inside the agency’s training room. During the celebration, Cpl. Walden signed off for the last time.

His final call can be heard on the NCSO’s social media pages — search @newtonsheriffga on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

“For more than 18 years, Corporal Walden was committed to serving and protecting the citizens of Newton County,” said Sheriff Brown. “I am honored to present Corporal Walden with his retirement badge as he begins the next chapter of his life. I wish him many years of happiness with his family, and may he enjoy this time of relaxation. Thank you for your dedication to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Corporal Walden.”

SHERIFF BROWN MEETS WITH MERRYVALE ASSISTED LIVING STAFF On Jan. 29, 2024, Sheriff Ezell Brown met with the staff of Merryvale Assisted Living, located off Georgia 142 in Oxford.

In an effort to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, Sheriff Brown took the time to answer any questions the Merryvale Assisted Living staff had regarding the the Newton County Sheriff’s Office operations.

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Simeon Bolden

Marley Stephenson

Sherrie Sweet

Darrell Hampton

Meyleeng Rodriquez-Caro

Tyrique Woods

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Detention Officer

Intern

Detention Officer

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Carole Thomas

Administrative Coordinator

Walker Shelnutt

Deputy Sheriff, Certified

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcome you!

Kathy Esque

Crime & Intelligence Analyst

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication

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