July 2025

NCSO july 2025 newsletter

JANUARY 20

A MOMENT WITH BUILDING A SAFER NEWTON COUNTY TOGETHER As we close the chapter on July and step into August, I want to take this opportunity to update you on the work we’ve been doing and share my thoughts on a matter that is always at the heart of our mission — continuing to keep our community safe.

Public safety is not the responsibility of law enforcement alone. It is a communitywide effort, built day by day through trust, mutual respect and active participation. I have always believed that the safest communities are those where residents and law enforcement officers know each other, talk to each other and work together toward the same goal: ensuring that every person — young or old, new to the county or a lifelong resident — can live without fear and with the confidence that they are protected.

I want to speak with you about three critical areas where we can strengthen that partnership: youth safety, neighborhood watch and gun safety and responsible ownership. Each of these topics affects the other, and each plays a vital role in the well-being of our county.

YOUTH SAFETY: The future of Newton County rests in the hands of our young people. Their safety is our collective responsibility, and we cannot afford to take it lightly. Over the past several years, our office has made youth engagement one of our top priorities. From school resource officers who serve as daily mentors and protectors to after-school programs and summer activities, our goal is to build trust with our youth early and give them the tools to make safe, healthy choices.

This summer, we saw strong participation in our youth outreach initiatives, including our Law & Leadership Academy. These programs may seem like small steps, but they create powerful connections.

When a young person knows they can approach a deputy with a concern, ask for guidance or simply share what’s going on in their life, that’s when real prevention happens.

I also want to address the importance of online safety. Today’s youth spend more time online than ever before, and while technology can be a wonderful tool, it can also be a gateway to danger. Parents

and guardians, I urge you to talk to your children about responsible internet use, monitor their online interactions and encourage them to report anything that makes them feel uncomfortable.

Keeping our youth safe is not just about responding to problems — it’s about preventing them. That’s why our office works closely with schools, faith leaders and community organizations to identify potential risks before they turn into tragedies. By investing in our youth, we invest in the future of Newton County.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH: Another powerful tool in building a safer county is the Neighborhood Watch program. This initiative empowers residents to be active partners in crime prevention. It’s about more than just keeping an eye out — it’s about building relationships among neighbors, creating a sense of belonging and making it clear that criminal activity will not find a foothold in our communities.

When neighbors know each other, they notice when something is out of place — a strange car circling the block, a door left open or unusual activity at a vacant home. These observations, when reported promptly, can prevent crimes before they happen or help us solve them quickly.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office offers training and support for all Neighborhood Watch groups.

We provide guidance on how to observe and report effectively, ways to improve home and street security, and tips for organizing community events that strengthen bonds between neighbors.

I encourage every neighborhood, subdivision or rural community to consider forming a watch group if you haven’t already. A watch group is not about confrontation — it’s about cooperation. It is a signal to would-be offenders that Newton County residents stand together, watch out for each other and are in direct communication with their law enforcement partners.

GUN SAFETY AND RESPONSIBLE OWNERSHIP: As Sheriff, I fully recognize the role that responsible gun ownership plays in both personal protection and public safety. Many Newton County

SHERIFF BROWN residents exercise their Second Amendment rights, and I respect and support those rights. At the same time, with those rights comes the responsibility to store, handle and use firearms safely and lawfully.

Too many tragedies, locally and across the nation, have occurred because firearms were left unsecured or mishandled. One of my greatest concerns is the accessibility of firearms to children and teens. A single moment of curiosity can lead to irreversible consequences.

If you own a firearm, I urge you to: • • • •

Store it securely — Use a gun safe, lockbox or trigger lock, and keep ammunition stored separately.

Educate your family — Teach children from a young age that firearms are not toys, and explain the dangers clearly.

Practice regularly — Familiarity with your firearm, through safe and controlled practice, ensures you can handle it responsibly.

Know the law — Be aware of Georgia’s firearm regulations and your legal responsibilities as a gun owner.

A few moments spent securing a weapon could save a life.

WORKING TOGETHER: While youth safety, neighborhood watch, and gun safety and responsible ownership may seem like separate topics, they are deeply connected. Youth who grow up in safe neighborhoods are less likely to become victims, or perpetrators, of crime. Strong neighborhood ties create an environment where suspicious activity is noticed and

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, GA

reported quickly. Responsible gun ownership ensures that firearms are not misused or stolen, further reducing the risk of crime.

In short, when we address these issues together, we strengthen the entire foundation of our community’s safety.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office cannot do this alone. We need the eyes, ears and voices of our residents. We need parents talking to their children, neighbors talking to each other and citizens willing to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.

Your involvement doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic — it can be as simple as attending a community meeting, locking your doors at night or introducing yourself to a neighbor you haven’t met yet.

I invite you to stay connected with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office through our website, social media channels and community events. Share your ideas, your concerns and your hopes for our county’s future. Together, we can create a Newton County where every resident feels protected, valued and heard.

Let us continue to stand together, to look out for one another and to take the small daily steps that add up to lasting change. Together, we can build not just a safer Newton County, but a stronger, more united one.

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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CITIZENS ACADEMY BEGINS AT NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

On July 1, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcomed a group of community members to the first session of the eight-week Newton County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy.

Participants were introduced to the Sheriff’s Office leadership team, learned about the agency’s mission and vision, and toured the facility for a behind-thescenes look at daily operations and how the office serves the community.

Sheriff Brown expressed his appreciation to each participant for taking time out of their busy schedules to learn more about the Office of the Sheriff. He noted that their interest, involvement and willingness to engage contribute to building a safer, stronger community.

NCSO, GNR HEALTH EXPANDS ACCESS TO LIFE-SAVING MEDICATION

This month, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with GNR Public Health, announced the installation of a second Naloxone vending machine within its law enforcement facilities.

The newest machine has been installed at the West Side Precinct, located at 3612 Salem Road in Covington. The precinct is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The first Naloxone vending machine, located at the Newton County Detention Center at 15151 Alcovy Road in Covington, remains accessible 24/7, providing continuous access to this life-saving medication.

These vending machines are part of an ongoing effort to combat the opioid crisis by ensuring Naloxone—a vital medication used to reverse opioid overdoses—is available free of charge to those who need it, when they need it most.

SHERIFF, DEPUTIES ATTEND ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE IN THE PARK

On July 3, Sheriff Ezell Brown and many deputies from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined community members for the 2025 Independence in the Park celebration in Covington. The event featured live music, delicious food and a spectacular fireworks show. However, for NCSO, the highlight was engaging with the community in a fun and festive setting.

Throughout the evening, the Sheriff and deputies were on hand to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Events like this help strengthen the partnership between law enforcement and the community, building trust and shared celebration along the way.

Photo Credit: City of Covington, GA

SHERIFF PARTICIPATES IN ANNUAL OXFORD FOURTH OF JULY PARADE Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office proudly took part in this year’s Oxford July 4th Parade and Celebration, hosted by the City of Oxford and the Oxford Lions Club. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to honor Independence Day alongside members of the local community.

Sheriff Brown expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who came out to support the celebration and share in the holiday festivities. He also thanked all those who contributed to making the event a success.

LAW & LEADERSHIP ACADEMY STUDENTS EXPLORE FUTURE CAREERS

On July 7, students participating in the 2025 Law & Leadership Academy Summer Program, hosted by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Taylor Made Foundation, enjoyed an exclusive opportunity to attend Career Day at Indian Creek Middle School.

Throughout the event, students engaged with a diverse group of professionals, gaining valuable insights, inspiration and a clearer understanding of potential career paths.

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO extend sincere thanks to the individuals, businesses and organizations who generously contributed their time and expertise. Their support is instrumental in guiding and empowering the next generation of leaders.

LAW & LEADERSHIP ACADEMY STUDENTS EXPLORE FUTURE CAREERS Following a successful Career Day on July 7, students in the 2025 Law & Leadership Academy Summer Program visited the Newton County Sheriff’s Office headquarters on July 8 for an in-depth tour of the facility.

During their visit, the students had the opportunity to engage with multiple divisions within the Sheriff’s Office, gaining valuable insights into the diverse roles and responsibilities that make up modern law enforcement.

The experience proved both inspiring and educational, leaving a lasting impression on the future leaders. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this opportunity possible.

NCSO HOSTS 14TH ANNUAL FILL THE BUS EVENT

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted its 14th Annual Fill the Bus event in July, and thanks to the generosity of the community, the effort was a tremendous success.

Held over two weekends, July 11–13 and July 18–20, at the Walmart Supercenter on Salem Road in Covington, the event aimed to collect school supplies and monetary donations to support the Sheriff’s Office Back to School Supply Giveaway. Community members came out in full force, helping to fill the bus with backpacks, notebooks, pencils and other essential items to help local students start the school year strong.

86 STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM LAW & LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

On July 16, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Taylor Made Foundation, celebrated the graduation of 86 students from the 2025 Law & Leadership Academy Summer Program.

Designed to empower and inspire youth throughout the community, the six-week program provided students with real-world experiences, leadership development and exposure to a variety of professional fields.

The academy was held June 2 through July 16 at Indian Creek Middle School in Covington. Sessions took place Mondays through Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Students participated in activities and instructional workshops focused on law enforcement strategies, fire safety techniques, application development, college preparation, cosmetology, financial literacy, music therapy, woodworking and more.

“The Law & Leadership Academy is about building strong foundations,” said Sheriff Brown. “We’re not only

giving our youth valuable tools and experiences — they’re also gaining a sense of purpose, direction and connection to their community. Watching these students grow over the summer has been one of the most rewarding parts of my year. I want to personally thank the families, volunteers, instructors and sponsors who made this year’s academy possible.”

The 2025 Law & Leadership Academy was sponsored

by Newton Federal Bank, Ginn Motor Company, Marco’s Pizza, Snapping Shoals EMC, Oxford Police Department, Covington Police Department, Porterdale Police Department, the Newton County Board of Education, the Newton County Board of Education Police Department, Views On Learning, the Doepke Law Firm, Jim & Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Daisy Bugs Printing, City/County Fire, the 911 Center, Emergency Management Agency, Central EMS, Arby’s, Girl’s Golf Club and 33.3 Hair School.

DEPUTY ROBERTS HELPS STRANDED EXPECTING MOTHER ON I-20

This month, Deputy Matt Roberts demonstrated true dedication to community service when he came to the aid of an expecting mother stranded with a flat tire in the intense heat of a Georgia summer.

Upon noticing the situation, Deputy Roberts immediately stopped to assist, helping her change the tire and ensuring both the mother and her baby remained safe and calm throughout the ordeal.

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office extends sincere gratitude to Deputy Roberts for his kindness, quick response and commitment to serving the community. Moments like these are a powerful reminder that heroes don’t always wear capes — sometimes, they wear a badge.

SGT. DICKERSON BECOMES NCSO’S FIRST CERTIFIED DRIVING INSTRUCTOR On July 18, Sgt. Tim Dickerson earned his certification as a driving instructor after graduating from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center’s intensive 80-hour Driver Instructor Training Program in Forsyth, Georgia.

Out of 30 students who began the demanding course, only 11 successfully completed it, passing eight challenging driving tests along with a comprehensive final exam. Sgt. Dickerson’s accomplishment marks a historic milestone as the first certified driving instructor at the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office ongratulates him and all who completed the rigorous program.

NCSO SHARES RESULTS FROM 2025 OPERATION SOUTHERN SLOW DOWN On July 24, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office released the statistics from this year’s Operation Southern Slow Down campaign, held July 14–20. This annual multistate speed enforcement and awareness effort aims to promote road safety and encourage compliance with speed limits.

Newton County joined forces with law enforcement agencies across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee to remind drivers of the importance of driving within the speed limit and wearing seat belt — every trip, every time.

During the weeklong campaign, deputies conducted 126 traffic stops, issuing 66 speeding citations, 21 for failure to wear seat belts, four for unrestrained children, nine for distracted driving and 26 for other violations.

NCSO RSAT PROGRAM RECEIVES LAPTOP DONATION

On July 23, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in a community initiative aimed at expanding access to technology for those in need. During the event, held at the Historic Courthouse, 50 laptops were distributed through a partnership between AT&T Georgia, Georgia Family Connection, and Compudopt.

The NCSO Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program was one of the selected recipients of the donated laptops. The devices will be used to support participants in their recovery journey by enhancing access to educational and vocational training resources, key components of successful rehabilitation and reentry.

Photo Credit: Newton County, GA Government

QUICK ACTION BY DEPUTY, CITIZEN SAVES MAN FROM FIRE IN COVINGTON On July 24, Deputy Chardelle McFarlin, who was already in the area, was one of the first to respond to a residential fire in the City of Covington. A 65-year-old male had gotten out of his vehicle after it caught fire but couldn’t get away from the flames.

Deputy McFarlin quickly located the victim and, with help from Marcus Gaither, a nearby citizen, moved him to safety. Cpl. Troy Mason arrived shortly after and took over, ensuring the victim was safely handed over to the Covington Police Department, Covington Fire Department and EMS, who provided further care to the victim.

Sheriff Ezell Brown wants to recognize and thank the efforts of the Deputy McFarlin, Cpl. Mason, Covington Fire Department, Georgia, EMS and Covington Police Department, whose teamwork and care were crucial in providing life-saving assistance. Additionally, he expresses his appreciation to Marcus Gaither, who was the first to arrive at the scene and provided critical, life-saving assistance until Deputy McFarlin took over.

NCSO HOSTS 14TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, with support from this year’s sponsors, provided more than 7,000 book bags to school-aged children during the 14th annual Back to School Supply Giveaway on July 26 at Newton High School. The event helped equip students with essential supplies for a successful start to the school year.

“First and foremost, I give special thanks to Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III, Newton High School Principal Dr. Stephen Hammock, the Newton County Board of Education and the Newton High School staff for allowing the Office of the Sheriff to continue to host its annual Back to School event at Newton High School,” Sheriff Brown said. “I thank all the sponsors and volunteers who helped ensure this year’s event would be a success. Additionally, I thank my staff for always making sure we are out front doing what we are called to do and taking care of our community.”

Sheriff Brown and the NCSO acknowledged the following sponsors for their support: Sellars Motors Inc., A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds, Precision Automotive Service, Rush Tees & Signs, Jenon Group LLC, Newton County Board of Commissioners, Ginn Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, Ginn Chevrolet, Ronnie’s Small Engine Inc., Newton Federal Bank, Call & Go Bail Bonding Inc., Olde Town Awards, The Town House Café, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Mike’s Tire Depot, Snapping Shoals EMC, Loyd’s Glass Company, Security Warehouse, The Home Depot, Dental Care at Town Center, Graham Packaging, Duro Tire & Wheel, Brightmoor Hospice, Tate Boys Auto Sales, Lavish Recovery Care, Bridgestone Golf, Tesa – The Elite Service Agency, The Doepke Law Firm LLC, Mitacs – Trust but Verify, Air Georgia Home Comfort Systems, Jim ’N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

In addition, Sheriff Brown extends his heartfelt thanks to the individual, everyday donors whose contributions played a meaningful role in the success of the event.

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Dushane White

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Zacharyah Hollie Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Ginger Teague Detention Officer

Destiny Bennett Detention Officer

Robertha Rowe

Administrative Technician I

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

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication

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