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NCSO july 2026 newsletter

JANUARY 20

A MOMENT WITH FREEDOM, SERVICE AND THE STRENGTH OF COMMUNITY July is a special month for Americans. It is a time for celebration, family gatherings, community events, summer traditions and pride in our country. Across the nation, we proudly display the American flag as we celebrate the birth of the United States and honor the men and women who have defended our freedoms through courage and sacrifice. Independence Day is more than a celebration of our nation’s founding. It reminds us that freedom comes with both blessings and responsibilities. The freedoms we enjoy today were secured through the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us. It is our responsibility to protect those freedoms for future generations. Those words still hold true today. Protecting freedom is not limited to military service. It also requires responsible citizens, strong families, good leaders, involved communities and public servants who are committed to justice, integrity and the law. Here in Newton County, those values are reflected every day through the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Every member of this agency plays a role in keeping our community safe. Law enforcement is more than a job. It is a commitment to service, sacrifice, accountability and compassion. While many families are enjoying holidays, vacations and summer memories, the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office remain on duty, ready to answer calls, respond to emergencies and help those who need us. Their commitment reminds us of an important truth: “The badge does not make the person; the character of the person gives honor to the badge.” Professionalism, integrity, respect, humility and compassion are the qualities that define great public servants. Every interaction between our employees and the citizens we serve is an opportunity to build trust and show our commitment to doing our best. I extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude. Your service often requires personal sacrifice, including missed holidays, time away from family, long

hours and demanding responsibilities. Yet you continue to serve with honor because you understand the importance of protecting our community. Please know that your service is valued, respected and appreciated. July also brings the height of summer in Georgia. Families are traveling, children are out of school, parks are busy and our roads see more traffic. While summer brings many opportunities for fun and recreation, safety must remain a priority. We encourage every resident and visitor to make safe choices. Wear your seat belt, avoid distracted driving, obey speed limits, stay alert in neighborhoods and recreational areas, watch children closely and never drive while impaired. Every safe decision can help prevent a tragedy. Together, we can help make sure everyone gets home safely. Parents also play an important role during the summer. With young people spending more time outside and online, guidance, involvement and open conversations are more important than ever. Encouraging children to take part in sports, educational programs, faith-based activities, volunteer work and community events can help build strong character and prepare them to become future leaders. One of Newton County’s greatest strengths is the partnership between law enforcement and the people we serve. Public safety is not the responsibility of law enforcement alone. A safe community is built when neighbors look out for one another, businesses invest in their communities, schools educate and inspire, faith communities provide support, and citizens take an active role in protecting the neighborhoods they call home. Those words reflect the spirit of Newton County. Every Neighborhood Watch volunteer, concerned citizen, educator, business owner, pastor, parent and community leader has a role in making Newton County a great place to live, work, worship and raise a family. Community policing is built on communication, trust, respect and shared responsibility. Every

SHERIFF BROWN positive interaction between a deputy and a citizen helps strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and our community. As we celebrate our freedoms this month, we also honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, our military veterans, first responders, firefighters, emergency medical professionals, correctional officers and all public servants who work to protect our communities and the freedoms we enjoy. Their service reminds us that freedom is sustained through commitment and courage. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to providing professional, fair and compassionate law enforcement services. We will continue to invest in training, leadership, employee wellness, technology, crime prevention and meaningful community involvement. That principle guides us every day. Whether helping a victim, mentoring a young person, comforting a grieving family, serving an inmate with professionalism or assisting a citizen in need, our actions and attitudes reflect the values of this organization. While we are proud of what we accomplish, we know that excellence is an ongoing effort. Every member of this agency is encouraged to continue learning, growing and serving others. When we invest in ourselves and one another, we strengthen both the Sheriff’s Office and the Newton County community. As we enter the second half of the year, let us continue to live by the principles that define us:

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, GA

integrity in every decision, accountability in every action, professionalism in every responsibility, compassion in every interaction and excellence in every service we provide. To the citizens of Newton County, thank you for the confidence, encouragement and trust you continue to place in the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Your partnership inspires us to perform our duties with honor, fairness, professionalism and integrity. As your sheriff, I remain confident in the future of Newton County. I believe in the character of our employees, the strength of our citizens and the spirit of this community. Working together, there is no challenge too great and no goal beyond our reach. May that spirit of unity guide our homes, neighborhoods, schools, churches, businesses and Sheriff’s Office throughout the summer and the rest of the year.

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, DEPUTIES CELEBRATE 250TH BIRTHDAY OF THE USA

Sheriff Ezell Brown and Newton County Sheriff’s Office deputies joined the Covington community on July 4, 2026, for the Hometown 4th of July Parade and Festival celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The patriotic celebration brought families, local businesses, community organizations and public safety agencies together for a morning of fun and hometown pride. Following the parade, families enjoyed food, live music, carnival games, a trackless train, face painting and a TouchA-Truck experience featuring public safety vehicles. Sheriff Brown and NCSO deputies were proud to take part in the celebration, connect with residents and help commemorate 250 years of freedom with the community they are honored to serve. Photo Credit: City of Covington, GA

MORE THAN 6,000 BACKPACKS, ONE BIG COMMUNITY EFFORT!

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, with support from this year’s sponsors, provided more than 6,000 book bags to school-aged children during the 15th annual Back to School Supply Giveaway on July 25 at Newton High School. The event helped equip students with essential supplies for a successful start to the school year. “Preparing students for a successful school year is a community effort, and we are fortunate to have incredible partners who share that commitment,” Sheriff Brown said. “We sincerely appreciate 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 their continued partnership. Thank you as well to every sponsor, volunteer and Sheriff’s Office employee who helped make this year’s giveaway possible.” Sheriff Brown and the NCSO acknowledged the following sponsors for their support: Newton County Board of Education, Newton Federal Bank, Emonie’s Closet, Department of Family and Children Services, Mookie Moo’s, ISSA Funnel, Rob’s Smokin Grill Co., Kool Treats Sweet Bar, Taylor Made Foundation, Scales Academy, Felica Tuggle Harris Foundation, Walmart Superstore #4558, TM Restaurant Group (Taco Mac), Voices of Pentecostal Church, Citizens of Georgia Power, Greater Love Fellowship Tabernacle, Jim’N Nicks Bar-B-Q, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi, Mansfield Masonic Lodge, Friendship Masonic Lodge #20, OES EHOP #1971, MBS Karate, ABA Center and Creative Touch Counseling. 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.

Since 2009, Sheriff Brown has remained committed to partnering with community members, local businesses and organizations to give back through a variety of annual Newton County Sheriff’s Office events, including the Back to School Golf Tournament, Back to School Supply Giveaway, National Faith & Blue Weekend, Toy Ride and the Sheriffs’ Guardian Angels Toy Giveaway. The success of these events is made possible through the generosity of sponsors and all donations supporting these initiatives. No taxpayer funds are used to support these community programs. To learn more about upcoming Newton County Sheriff’s Office events, visit https://www.newtonsheriffga.org/events.

BUILT FOR THE MISSION: 12 OFFICERS COMPLETE SWAT LEVEL II

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated 12 law enforcement officers from the agency’s SWAT Level II Training Course, held July 6–10, 2026. This intensive 50-hour course marks an advanced milestone in tactical training, delivering hands-on, high-intensity instruction designed to sharpen real-world response and strengthen team coordination under pressure. The SWAT Level II program builds upon foundational skills, focusing on leadership, decision-making and complex operational execution in high-risk environments. During the course, officers received specialized training in SWAT leadership and liabilities; roles, responsibilities and operations; advanced rifle training; tactical blast strip breaching; rifle-based building clearing techniques; robotics and drone integration; and BearCat armored vehicle operations. Additional instruction reinforced tactical planning, communication and coordinated team movements during critical incidents. Designed to enhance readiness for dynamic and potentially life-threatening situations, the course emphasized both individual performance and cohesive unit function, ensuring officers are prepared to respond effectively in rapidly evolving scenarios. Participating agencies included the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office, Conyers Police Department, Monroe Police Department, Newton County School System Police Department, White Police Department, Milledgeville Police Department and Emory Police Department. “This achievement represents more than completing a course; it reflects a deep commitment to serving our com-

munity at the highest level,” said Sheriff Brown. “These officers have invested countless hours into developing the advanced tactical skills, leadership and teamwork required for high-risk operations. Their dedication directly enhances the safety and security of the communities we serve. Drawing from my 22 years of experience as a SWAT officer, I reminded them that training never truly ends; it is something you continually refine throughout your career.” He added, “I also want to recognize the instructors whose leadership and expertise have been instrumental in the continued success of both the basic and advanced SWAT courses hosted by our agency throughout the year.” Sheriff Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office extend congratulations to all graduates and commend them for their continued dedication to advancing their capabilities in service to public safety. For more information about upcoming training opportunities, visit www.newtonsheriffga.org/upcomingtrainingclasses.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE TURNS SECOND CHANCES INTO NEW BEGINNINGS Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office recognized a total of 15 inmate residents during a graduation ceremony held July 17, 2026, celebrating the successful completion of two jail-based rehabilitation programs. Fifteen participants graduated from the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program, while 10 of those completed the #1 Dads program. The ceremony was held in the agency’s training room. The RSAT program is a three-month evidence-based program that helps inmate residents overcome substance abuse through cognitive, behavioral, social and vocational development. Participants receive the tools and support needed to address addiction, make positive life changes and prepare for a successful return to their communities. Sheriff Brown said rehabilitation remains a key part of the Sheriff’s Office’s mission and plays an important role in reducing repeat offenses. “Every graduation represents a decision to move forward. These programs provide inmate residents with the knowledge, accountability and support they need to make better choices when they return to our community,” said Sheriff Brown. “I am grateful to my staff and facilitators for their continued dedication and commitment to giving these individuals the tools they need for a better future.” The following inmate residents graduated from the RSAT

program: Scott Lowes Jr., Rickey Horton Jr., Craig Alley, Antwone Hooks, James McDonald Jr., Joseph Willingham, Areon Clemons, Bernard White, Charles Johnson, Eli Lacy, Lisa Kessler, Jennifer Reynolds, Maria Ketchum, Alexis Wade and Marian Hadaway. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office partners with Action, Inc. to provide the #1 Dads program at the Newton County Detention Center. The program is designed to strengthen or rebuild relationships between fathers and their children while promoting responsible parenting, healthy family relationships and long-term stability. Participants receive instruction through workshops, case management and job readiness training. The following inmate residents graduated from the #1 Dads program: Scott Lowes Jr., Rickey Horton Jr., Craig Alley, Antwone Hooks, James McDonald Jr., Joseph Willingham, Areon Clemons, Bernard White, Charles Johnson and Eli Lacy. The Sheriff’s Office continues to invest in rehabilitation through more than 20 jail-based programs offered at the Newton County Detention Center. Since 2009, these programs have contributed to about a 50% percent reduction in repeat offenders returning to the detention center, demonstrating the impact that education, treatment and life-skills training can have on successful reentry.

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication