January 2026

NCSO january 2026 newsletter

JANUARY 20

A MOMENT WITH

. Neighborhoods & Faith Communities • Maintain a watchful eye on one another. If you see suspicious activity, report it. Early reporting prevents escalatio • Encourage holiday décor that enhances visibility and safety: well-lit walkways, trimmed shrubbery and visible ch • For our seniors: establish buddy systems for shopping trips and errands. Criminals often target isolation; connec

SAFEGUARDING NEWTON COUNTY TOGETHER IN 2026

January provides us with an important moment of reflection, renewal and recommitment. It is a time when families set new goals, businesses refocus their missions and communities look ahead with hope and determination. On behalf of the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, I extend my gratitude to each and every one of you who continue to stand with us in our shared mission of keeping Newton County safe.

January is traditionally one of the most critical months in public safety. The transition into a new year often brings increased travel, changes in daily routines, heightened financial stress for some families and weather-related challenges that can strain both households and infrastructure. This January has been no exception. Our deputies have responded to a wide range of calls for service, from traffic incidents and domestic disputes to welfare checks and emergency responses, while maintaining a visible and proactive presence throughout our community.

I am proud to report that, through sustained patrol strategies, intelligence-led policing and strong community cooperation, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office continues to stand prepared and fully committed to protecting our businesses and citizens at all times.

Public safety is not a seasonal responsibility; it is a continuous commitment. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office operates with the understanding that safety is achieved not only through enforcement, but through prevention, preparedness and collaboration.

As we have progressed through January and now into the remainder of the year, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office remains focused on several core priorities: • High-Visibility Patrols: Our deputies will continue to increase patrol presence in residential neighborhoods, school zones, commercial districts and high-traffic areas. We are aware that visibility deters crime and strengthens trust between law enforcement and the community.

• Crime Prevention and Intelligence-Based

Policing: We actively analyze crime trends and patterns to deploy resources where they are most needed. This proactive approach allows us to address emerging concerns before they escalate.

• Rapid Emergency Response: Whether responding to violent crime, traffic collisions, medical emergencies or natural hazards, our deputies are trained and equipped to act decisively and professionally.

• Accountability and Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest standards of conduct. Transparency, professionalism and ethical policing remain foundational principles of the Sheriff’s Office.

Protecting Newton County’s Businesses and Economic Vitality: Local businesses are the backbone of Newton County’s economic health.

A safe business environment encourages growth, employment and community stability. Throughout January, continued coordination with business owners and managers helped address concerns related to theft, fraud, trespassing and after-hours security, and that collaboration will carry forward in the months ahead.

Crime-prevention consultations, security assessments and ongoing engagement with business leaders remain available to help ensure employees, customers and property are protected.

A strong partnership between law enforcement and the business community sends a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated in Newton County.

Community Engagement: While the Newton County Sheriff’s Office remains committed in its duty to protect and serve, law enforcement cannot do this work alone. Community safety is a shared responsibility, and the most secure communities are those where citizens are actively engaged, informed and willing to look out for one another.

I encourage every resident of Newton County to remain vigilant and involved. Simple actions, such as reporting suspicious activity, securing

SHERIFF BROWN

on. hildren’s play areas. homesprotection. and vehicles, checking on neighbors ction provides

and participating in neighborhood watch programs, make a meaningful difference. When citizens and deputies work together, we create an environment where crime struggles to take root.

Our deputies value every conversation, every tip and every opportunity to build trust.

We encourage open communication and respectful dialogue because public safety thrives on mutual respect and cooperation.

Faith, Family, and Community Partnerships: Newton County is fortunate to be supported by strong faith institutions, civic organizations, schools and nonprofit partners.

Throughout January, continued engagement with these groups reflected the understanding that prevention and healing often begin well before law enforcement involvement becomes necessary.

Collaboration with churches, community leaders, educators and youth organizations helps address root causes of crime, promote positive pathways and support families during difficult times. This commitment reflects an investment not only in enforcement, but in the overall well-being of the community.

Training, Preparedness and Officer Wellness: The effectiveness of any sheriff’s office depends on the preparedness and well-being of its personnel.

In January, our deputies and staff continued rigorous training in areas such as de-escalation, emergency response, legal updates and community engagement. We are also committed to officer wellness, recognizing that healthy, supported deputies are better equipped to serve with compassion, clarity

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, GA

and professionalism.

A Call to the Greater Newton County Community: As Sheriff, I ask for your continued support, cooperation and partnership.

Safety is not achieved through fear or division; it is attained through trust, communication and shared purpose. Let us move forward together in 2026 with a renewed commitment to respect, responsibility and resilience.

If you see something that concerns you, say something. If you have questions, reach out.

If you need assistance, know that the Newton County Sheriff’s Office stands ready to serve.

January marks a new beginning, but our mission remains constant: to protect life, preserve peace, and serve the citizens of Newton County with honor and integrity. I am extremely proud of the men and women of the Office of the Sheriff and profoundly grateful for the community we are honored to serve.

Together, we will continue to ensure that Newton County remains a safe place to live, work, worship and raise our families—not just in January, but every day of the year.

I pray that 2026 be a year of safety, unity, and progress for us all.

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

Scan the QR code to download our app today! @newtonsheriffga

NYE CHECKPOINTS TARGET IMPAIRED DRIVING IN NEWTON COUNTY

On Dec. 31, 2025, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Georgia State Patrol and the Covington Police Department, conducted countywide vehicle checkpoints from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. as part of a coordinated effort to deter impaired driving and enhance roadway safety.

As a result of these checkpoints, law enforcement officers reported the following activity: • 13 traffic-related arrests • 16 vehicle impounds • 7 DUI arrests • 61 citations issued • 2 drug-related arrests • 3 warrant arrests • 8 warnings issued Sheriff Ezell Brown emphasized the significance of these proactive enforcement efforts, stating, “The safety of our community continues to remain our top priority. This coordinated operation reflects the commitment of our deputies and partner agencies to keeping Newton County’s roads safe.

By addressing impaired driving and other violations, we are taking meaningful steps to protect lives and prevent tragedies.”

Sheriff Brown and the Sheriff’s Office extend their appreciation to all participating agencies for their collaboration and thank the community for its continued cooperation.

SHERIFF BROWN SWEARS IN NEW DEPUTIES, DETENTION OFFICERS

In January, Sheriff Ezell Brown administered the oath of office to six newly hired Newton County Sheriff’s Office personnel. Those sworn in were Sylvia Graham, Detention Officer; Wendy Craigwell, Administrative Technician; Luke Gilreath, Maintenance Technician; Antonio Lee Jr., Deputy Sheriff, Recruit; LaShawn Williams, Deputy Sheriff, Recruit; and Willie Clarke, Deputy Sheriff, Bailiff.

The ceremony officially welcomed the new team members and marked the beginning of their service to the Newton County community.

NCSO, SCENT EVIDENCE K9 HOSTS FIRST TRAINING OF THE NEW YEAR

From Jan. 5–9, 2026, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Scent Evidence K9, hosted the first multi-agency K-9 training of the year in Newton County.

Deputies from the Newton County and Elbert County Sheriff’s Offices assigned to their respective K-9 units trained with Paul Coley, CEO of Scent Evidence K9, at multiple locations throughout the county. Training sites included Covington’s Historic Square, Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast, Piedmont Technical College and Varner Lake.

The training focused on scent tracking using the Scent Evidence Preservation Kit and concluded with a multi-agency training seminar attended by the Newton County, Elbert County, Cobb County and Butts County Sheriff’s Offices. ““This multi-agency K-9 training gives our deputies and partner agencies an opportunity to sharpen their skills and work together using some of the most advanced scent-tracking techniques available,” said Sheriff Brown.

“Training like this helps us respond more efficiently, locate missing persons more quickly and ultimately reduce the risk of injury or loss of life in our communities.”

The Scent Evidence Preservation Kit allows for the pre-collection and long-term preservation of an individual’s unique scent, providing K-9 units with an uncontaminated scent article during searches for missing per-

sons. Each scent is as unique as a fingerprint and can be preserved for up to 10 years. The kit is designed to help search teams locate missing individuals more quickly and efficiently and reduce injuries and deaths among those who may wander from safe environments.

Families and caregivers of individuals who are at risk of wandering, such as those with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or autism, are strongly encouraged to obtain a free Scent Evidence Preservation Kit from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.

For more information about future K-9 training events or to receive a Scent Evidence Preservation Kit, contact Capt.

Marty Roberts at mroberts@newtonsheriffga.org or 770231-2926.

NCSO, GEORGIA PIEDMONT PARTNER ON OFFICER SURVIVAL COURSE

Newton County Sheriff’s Office SWAT instructors Lt. Tony Howard, Cpl. Avery Williams, Cpl. Wayne Watts, and Deputy Mark Sanzo trained certified, sworn law enforcement officers in the Officer Survival Course, which was held Jan. 12–16. The course was offered through Georgia Piedmont Technical College and hosted at a Sheriff’s Office facility.

The course, part of the college’s Law Enforcement Academy, focused on officer mindset, tactical decision-making, and practical skills, including firearms training, vehicle stops, building searches, and responses to domestic disputes. It was designed to enhance officer safety and survival in high-risk situations.

“This training gave our law enforcement partners the tools and strategies they needed to stay safe while protecting the public. We were proud to host this course and strengthen our partnership with Georgia Piedmont Technical College,” said Sheriff Ezell Brown.

“By providing hands-on, real-world training led by our experienced instructors, we ensured officers were prepared to respond effectively to high-risk situations. Every skill they gained here not only enhanced their safety but also helped keep our community safer.”

The opportunity for the Sheriff’s Office to host the training reflected the agency’s commitment to professional development and community safety.

NCSO SWAT SCHOOL EARNS POST APPROVAL FOR TRAINING CREDIT

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office announced that the agency’s SWAT School has been approved by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council to award official training credit to Georgia Peace Officers.

The approval was granted Jan. 6, 2026, and authorizes the Sheriff’s Office to submit the NCSO SWAT School for POST training credit for peace officers who are required to be registered or certified by the council. As part of the approval, the course received its own POST-assigned course number, formally recognizing it as a standalone training program.

The approved course is titled NCSO SWAT School and has been assigned course number IFDO1F. The training consists of 50 hours and will be completed on the scheduled course completion date as submitted to the POST Council. The approval applies only to the specific course, dates and training hours reviewed by the council.

According to POST requirements, training credit will be awarded only to peace officers who attend a minimum of 90% of the course and successfully meet all course completion standards. The Sheriff’s Office will submit class rosters to ensure proper documentation and allocation of training credit.

“This approval is a testament to the professionalism and

dedication of our instructors and deputies,” Sheriff Brown said. “Having our SWAT School recognized by POST and assigned its own course number ensures our officers and other attendees receive high-level, standards-based training that directly enhances public safety in Newton County and throughout Georgia.”

The recognition is contingent upon strict compliance with the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Act and POST Council rules.

For more information about the NCSO SWAT School, contact Lt. Tony Howard at 678-201-2411 or email thoward@newtonsheriffga.org.

C.H.A.M.P.S. PROGRAM GRADUATES MORE THAN 370 STUDENTS

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office C.H.A.M.P.S. instructors — Corporals Tim Smith, Michael Gregg and Kimberly Cox — graduated more than 370 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 November.

The C.H.A.M.P.S.’s graduations were held in the following Newton County Elementary Schools: Porterdale, Mansfield, STEAM Academy, Livingston and Live Oak. 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.

! s ion p m a ch r u o o t s Congratulation

SHERIFF BROWN ATTENDS BELOVED COMMUNITY GLOBAL SUMMIT

On Jan. 15, Sheriff Ezell Brown of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office attended the Beloved Community Global Summit at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Beloved Community Global Summit brings together leaders, innovators and emerging changemakers from around the world to explore practical solutions that promote peace, justice, and unity. Inspired by the nonviolence principles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Summit provides space for honest conversation and collaboration that strengthens communities across many areas.

The event opened with a keynote address from Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center and a global advocate for justice and reconciliation. She encouraged attendees to move beyond discussion and take intentional steps toward building communities grounded in shared humanity.

Presented in partnership with The Carter Center, Operation HOPE, Habitat for Humanity International, The Kapor Foundation and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the Summit included panel discussions on housing challenges, peacebuilding, artificial intelligence, access to capital, economic opportunity and the future of

technology.

Sheriff Brown’s participation reflected the Newton County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing dedication to building public trust, promoting fairness and supporting comprehensive approaches to public safety. Engagement in national and global forums such as the Beloved Community Global Summit helps position Newton County as a community committed to progress, partnership, and principled leadership.

NEWTON COUNTY RESPONDS TO BACK-TO-BACK WINTER STORM EVENTS

In January, Newton County found itself in the impact zone of two winter storm systems as severe weather moved through the region, creating hazardous road conditions, the potential for power outages, and prolonged cold temperatures.

Ahead of the first system, which impacted the area during the weekend of Jan. 24, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined local public safety agencies and county officials for a briefing with the U.S. National Weather

Service (NWS) in Peachtree City, Georgia. Forecasts at the time indicated a significant threat of freezing rain, with potential ice accumulations ranging from 0.10 to 0.50 inches, particularly north of Interstate 20, along with gusty winds exceeding 20 mph. While Newton County was affected by the storm, ice accumulations did not result in major disruptions or roadway accidents.

Just one week later, Newton County experienced another round of winter weather, with impacts occurring from Friday night, Jan. 31, into Saturday night. Forecasts suggested this system would bring more snow than ice, accompanied by cold air that could potentially linger for several days. Ultimately, the county experienced only a light dusting of snow, with no significant impacts reported.

Through both winter storm events, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office demonstrated a continued commitment to proactive planning, strong interagency coordination and clear communication with the public. By working closely with public safety partners, county leadership and the National Weather Service, Newton County remained well-prepared to respond to winter weather challenges while keeping residents informed and safe.

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Sylvia Graham

Wendy Craigwell

Detention Officer

Administrative Technician

Luke Gilreath

Nykeriah Sanders

Maintenance Technician

Administrative Technician

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

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication

www.newtonsheriffga.org www.newtonsheriffga.org