June 2025

NCSO june 2025 newsletter

JANUARY 20

A MOMENT WITH HONORING FATHERS, FAMILIES AND HEALING THE HIDDEN WOUNDS Being a father is more than just a title — it’s a true calling. It’s about being there, showing love, protecting and guiding with care. This Father’s Day, I want to say thank you to every father and father figure in our Newton County community. Whether you are a dad, stepdad, grandfather, godfather, mentor or role model, your presence matters more than words can say.

True fatherhood is not about being perfect. It’s about being present. Fathers help build strong homes and stronger communities. They teach our children how to be responsible, caring, and brave — not by words alone, but by how they live each day.

I have also been deeply blessed in my own life to be a father and to understand the joy and responsibility that comes with that role. I reflect often on the nature of fatherhood — the opportunity to shape values, to nurture confidence and to teach integrity.

My journey as a father has influenced every aspect of my leadership as Sheriff. The patience, the firmness, the listening ear, the unshakable love — these are the same qualities I strive to bring to the men and women I serve alongside every day.

Yet, fatherhood extends far beyond the walls of our own homes. Strong fathers help build strong communities. They show young people, both boys and girls, what it means to be accountable, compassionate and committed. They teach by example that real strength is measured not by control or domination, but by how we protect, how we uplift and how we love. In today’s world, where families are often under stress and our communities face so many challenges, we need more visible, engaged and honorable fathers.

Let me be clear: fatherhood is not about perfection.

It is about presence. It’s about staying the course, even when the road gets tough.

It’s about owning mistakes, offering grace and showing up again and again. I salute every father in this agency and across Newton County who embodies these principles, both on the job and at home.

I encourage each of us to pause and appreciate the fathers and father figures in our lives. If you are fortunate enough to still have your father or grand-

father with you, take the time to thank them. If your father has passed on, reflect on the legacy he left behind. And if you are a father yourself, I want you to know that your influence is far-reaching and your work, though it may go unspoken at times, is deeply valued.

For those in law enforcement, fatherhood comes with unique challenges and responsibilities. Our profession demands a great deal — unpredictable schedules, critical decisions, emotional strain and physical risks. Balancing this with the responsibilities of parenting is not easy, but many of our deputies and staff do it with quiet dignity every day.

When a father wears a badge, he does not just serve his family — he serves an entire county. He sets an example not only for his children but for neighbors, churches, and young people looking for hope in troubled times. In fact, many officers report that it is their role as fathers that inspires them most to make their communities safer and more just.

It is also important to remember that the children of law enforcement fathers live with their own set of challenges. They may wonder why Dad cannot be at the game or the recital. They might worry about his safety on the job. That is why it is critical for law enforcement fathers to remain intentional with their words, their time and their emotional availability.

Being a “protector” at home is just as essential as being one on the street.

While we celebrate fathers and families in June, we must also turn our attention to another important issue that affects many in our community — post-traumatic stress disorder.

June is National PTSD Awareness Month, and although this condition is often associated with law enforcement, the military or emergency responders, PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma or overwhelming stress.

PTSD doesn’t always come with visible scars. It can appear through sleepless nights, sudden anger, emotional numbness or ongoing anxiety. Too often, people feel they have to suffer in silence, believing that vulnerability is a weakness. Let me be clear: It is

SHERIFF BROWN not.

PTSD is not a sign of failure. It is a natural response to painful or traumatic events — the loss of a loved one, a serious accident, violence or longterm emotional stress. These experiences can leave lasting effects, but there is hope. There is healing.

And, most importantly, there is help.

At the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, we are committed to promoting mental wellness — not only within our agency, but across the entire community. We support open conversations, peer support, faith-based guidance and access to professional counseling for anyone in need, whether due to job-related stress, personal hardship or past trauma.

If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, anxious or emotionally distant, please know this: You are not alone. You are seen. You are valued.

And your story is still being written.

Whether you are a first responder, a parent, a teacher, a student, a veteran or simply someone carrying a heavy burden, please don’t carry it in silence. Reach out — to a friend, a counselor, a

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, GA

spiritual leader or a support group.

Together, as a community, we can end the stigma around mental health and ensure that no one has to face their struggles alone.

As we move through this new month, may we all recommit ourselves to service with compassion, to family with purpose and to self-care with courage. Let’s continue to take care of one another — and ourselves — as we work together to strengthen and uplift Newton County with pride, unity and care.

In times of celebration and in moments of struggle, what holds us together is our shared commitment to community. Whether you’re a parent, a neighbor, a first responder, a teacher or simply someone trying to do good in the world — your role matters. Every act of kindness, every step toward healing and every moment of presence makes a difference. Let’s keep showing up for each other, and let’s continue building a Newton County we can all be proud to call home.

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

SHERIFF SWEARS IN NEWLY HIRED NCSO PERSONNEL, SUMMER INTERNS On June 2, Sheriff Ezell Brown administered the Oath of Office to five newly hired Newton County Sheriff’s Office personnel. The personnel who took the Oath of Office were Deputy Sheriff Nakita Vaughn, Deputy Sheriff Recruit Trevor Powell, Jr., Detention Officer Cymonne Bray, Detention Officer Ashley Brown and Administrative Assistant Francine Williams.

Sheriff Brown also administered the Oath of Office to 12 summer interns who will be supporting the NCSO throughout the season. The interns who took the Oath of Office were Kayla Bryant, Joshua Caldwell, Jordan Herndon, Spencer Jarrell-Linton, Kiara Detweiler, Jayden Green, Elise Moody, Trinity Murry, Desiree Quiles, Ashton Wade, Joi Smith and Alaina Sneed.

DEPUTIES GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO REMOVE SNAKE FROM RESIDENCE

When Deputies Devan Moore and Da’Von Sydnor received a call about a large snake inside a home on Mountain Lane, they didn’t hesitate to take action, especially since animal control no longer handles these situations.

Without hesitation, they entered the residence and safely removed the snake, saving the homeowner both the stress and expense of hiring a private service.

Their courage and kindness remind us how our deputies go the extra mile to support the community in unexpected ways. True heroes don’t just protect — they care!

NCSO, GNR PUBLIC HEALTH INTRODUCE GEORGIA’S FIRST NALOXONE VENDING MACHINE IN A LAW ENFORCEMENT DETENTION FACILITY

In a groundbreaking step to combat the opioid crisis, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with GNR Public Health, has unveiled the first Naloxone vending machine to be installed inside a law enforcement facility in the state of Georgia. Located at the Newton County Detention Center, the vending machine offers free and secure access to Naloxone, an emergency medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

This initiative reflects a bold new approach to addressing the opioid epidemic through community partnership, access and prevention.

“This is a major step forward in protecting lives and empowering our community,” said Sheriff Ezell Brown. “By placing this machine inside our facility, we are bridging the gap between public safety and public health. We are proud to lead the way in Georgia.”

The project is funded through a two-year, $196,800 grant from the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust,

awarded to GNR Public Health. Part of this funding will be used to stock the machine with Naloxone kits. The vending machine itself was purchased through additional support from the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Opioid Program.

“We encourage all residents, especially those who know someone who is taking prescription opioid medication or struggles with opioid addiction, to take advantage of the opportunity to receive free naloxone,” said Andre Castro, Director of Community Engagement for GNR Public Health.

Accessing the machine is easy. Individuals can request a token from a Newton County Detention Center administrator, which allows them to retrieve a Naloxone kit.

The machine also features a QR code with step-by-step instructions for proper administration, offering education alongside access.

The vending machine comes at a critical time. According to the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program (ODMAP), from 2024 to the present: • Georgia reported 15,457 opioid overdose incidents requiring emergency response.

• Newton County accounted for 173 of those incidents, approximately 1.12% of the state’s total.

• Naloxone was administered in 113 of those local cases, representing 65% of responses.

GNR Public Health serves Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale counties and is dedicated to keeping communities healthy, protected, and prepared through essential local public health services. To learn more, visit www.gnrhealth.com.

NCSO DEPUTIES CONNECT WITH YOUTH AT LOCAL SUMMER CAMP On June 5, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit and School Resource Officer Unit shared a special lunch with students from the Washington Street Community Summer Camp.

This visit provided an opportunity for positive engagement, allowing deputies to connect with local youth, build trust and strengthen community relationships in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

GINN CHEVROLET, SELLARS MOTORS DONATE TO NCSO INITIATIVES

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office extend heartfelt thanks to Ginn Chevrolet for their generous monetary donation to the 2025 Law and Leadership Academy.

Ginn Chevrolet’s support plays a vital role in empowering the next generation of Newton County leaders. Through this impactful summer program, hosted in partnership with the Taylor Made Foundation, local youth will have the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential leadership skills that will shape their future and strengthen our community.

Additionally, Sheriff Brown and the NCSO extend sincere thanks to Sellars Motors Inc. for their generous support.

Sellars Motors donated an 85” and a 65” TV to be raffled off during the 6th Annual Back to School Golf Tournament, which took place on June 19 at Ashton Hills Golf Course in Covington. Their contribution plays a key role in helping the Sheriff’s Office raise essential funds to provide school supplies for students in need, ensuring local children are equipped for a successful school year.

NCSO DEPUTY, CPD OFFICER HELP HOMELESS COUPLE IN NEED During a recent call to a local CVS, Deputy Joseph McClarin encountered a couple facing more than just a difficult moment — they were experiencing homelessness and living on the streets with their two dogs.

Although no laws were violated, Deputy McClarin, along with Officer Hobbs from the Covington (Ga.) Police Department, saw an opportunity to help. With severe weather approaching, both law enforcement officers covered the cost for a hotel room for the couple and their pets, ensuring they had a safe, warm place to stay for the night. They also provided the couple with dog food.

Their compassion and willingness to go above and beyond are a true reflection of what it means to serve with heart.

MONROE POLICE HONOR SHERIFF, NCSO FOR SWAT OPERATION SUCCESS On June 12, the Monroe Police Department (MPD) honored Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office with a signed letter of appreciation from Chief R.V. Watts, along with a commemorative challenge coin. This recognition was given in gratitude for the NCSO’s response during the SWAT operation conducted on May 17, 2025, at the request of the MPD, which led to the successful arrest of a homicide suspect.

“We are truly grateful for your assistance and proud of the strong working relationship between our agencies,” Chief Watts wrote. “Please extend our thanks to every member of your SWAT Team for their dedication and outstanding work.”

Sheriff Brown is proud not only of the NCSO SWAT Team, but also of every division within the Office of the Sheriff. Their professionalism, commitment and teamwork continue to reflect the highest standards of service.

NCSO PARTICIPATES IN COVINGTON’S JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION On June 14, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in the 2025 Juneteenth celebration in Covington. The day kicked off with the annual Juneteenth parade through the Square, followed by a festival and concert at Legion Field.

Sheriff Brown and the NCSO thank everyone who made the day so special, especially the Newton County Historical Committee on Black Heritage Preservation for organizing such an incredible event!

Photo Credit: City of Covington, GA

SHERIFF BROWN ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS IN SHERIFF’S OFFICE RANKS Sheriff Ezell Brown is proud to announce the well-deserved promotions of several dedicated personnel of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. These individuals have consistently demonstrated leadership, commitment and excellence in serving our community: • Mandy Peters has been promoted to Deputy Sheriff, Lieutenant • America James has been promoted to Deputy Sheriff, Corporal • Jeffrey “Jeff” Alexander has been promoted to Deputy Sheriff, Corporal • Wayne Watts has been promoted to Deputy Sheriff, Corporal • Andrew Archie has been promoted to Deputy Sheriff, Corporal • Quintarious Cooper has been promoted to Detention Corporal • Arthur Holmes has been promoted to Detention Corporal • Gerald Castillo Jr. has been promoted to Detention Sergeant Additionally, congratulations go to Jaime Green, promoted to Deputy Sheriff Investigator, Corporal (not pictured).

Sheriff Brown commends each of these individuals for their hard work and dedication and looks forward to their continued success in their new roles. Congratulations to all on this significant achievement!

NCSO WINS 2ND ANNUAL FIRST RESPONDERS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT On June 21, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office won the 2nd Annual First Responders Basketball Tournament at Wolverines Gym in Oxford. The event featured a spirited competition between law enforcement and fire services, with the Sheriff’s Office coming out on top 4135 to bring home the trophy.

Sheriff Ezell Brown provides his gratitude to all those who attended and supported the tournament.

NCSO HOSTS 6TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL GOLF TOURNAMENT

On June 19, 2025, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted their 6th annual Back to School Golf Tournament at Ashton Hills Golf Course in Covington, GA. This year’s event brought together 92 golfers, forming 23 teams, to raise funds for the Sheriff’s Office’s annual Back to School Giveaway, which provides local students with essential school supplies ahead of the new academic year.

“I want to extend a special thanks to all our sponsors who contributed to the golf tournament and helped raise funds for our annual Back to School Giveaway,” Sheriff Brown said.

“The giveaway is one of many important community outreach efforts at the Office of the Sheriff, ensuring that students in Newton County start the school year equipped and confident. I also thank the volunteers and my staff for their hard work in making this year’s tournament a success. Because of everyone involved, the event was a great success.”

The 2025 tournament was made possible through the support of the following sponsors: 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, and Jim ’N Nick’s Community Bar‑B‑Q. The 2025 Back to School Giveaway is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Newton High School, 1 Ram Way, in Covington.

Introducing the NCSO 2025 summer Interns

Kayla Bryant

Joshua Caldwell

Jordan Herndon

Kiara Detweiler

Jayden Green

Elise Moody

Trinity Murry

Desiree Quiles

Ashton Wade

Joi Smith

Alaina Sneed

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Nakita Vaughn

Trevor Powell Brieanna Reddick Kavin Edwards

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Quayan Jennings Ayuba Abubakari

Ashley Brown

Cymonne Bray

Deputy Sheriff

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Danny White Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Francine Williams Juanita Cheeks Administrative Assistant

Detention Technician

Detention Officer

Jake Buice

Maintenance Technician II

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication

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