Summer 2023

NCSO summer 2023 newsletter

A MOMENT WITH

A CALL FOR UNITY: KEEPING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE

I wanted to take a moment to address the importance of firearm safety. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe havens for every individual, regardless of age or background. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to maintaining an environment where families can feel safe in their homes and community.

As responsible citizens, it is crucial that we uphold the principles of firearm safety. If you own a firearm, please ensure that it is properly stored and secured to prevent unauthorized access.

I humbly request that you educate your family members, especially children, about the dangers associated with firearms and the importance of responsible gun ownership. By working together, we can reduce the risk of tragic accidents involving firearms.

It is my belief that education and awareness play important roles in preventing violence. Over the coming months, we will increase our efforts to engage with community members of all ages, providing valuable resources and educational programs. We understand that by empowering our community with knowledge, we can collectively build resilience against violence. Our workshops, seminars, and informational sessions will not only educate but also foster a sense of community. Please understand that the engagement and involvement of the Newton County community are crucial in curbing violence and fostering a safer environment. Here are some techniques and roles that community members can play and utilize in assisting the Newton County Sheriff’s Office:

1. Community Watch Programs: Form or join neighborhood watch groups to keep an eye out for unusual or suspicious activities. Regular communication among neighbors and with law enforcement can assist in deterring criminal behavior and create a strong sense of unity within the community.

2. Reporting Suspicious Activity: Encourage residents to report any suspicious behavior they observe to law enforcement authorities. Timely reporting can help law enforcement intervene before potential threats escalate.

3. Engage in Community Policing: Build positive relationships with law enforcement officers by participating in community policing events. Attend com-

munity meetings, engage in open discussions, and get to know the officers who serve your area. This helps foster trust and cooperation.

4. Support Youth Programs: Volunteer for or support after-school programs, sports activities, arts initiatives, and mentorship programs for young individuals. Providing positive outlets for their energy and creativity can divert them from engaging in negative behaviors.

5. Educational Workshops: Attend and encourage others to participate in workshops and seminars on topics such as conflict resolution, gun safety, domestic violence prevention, and mental health awareness.

6. Promote Responsible Firearm Ownership: If you own firearms, ensure they are stored safely and securely. Educate others in the community about responsible gun ownership and the importance of keeping firearms out of the hands of unauthorized individuals.

7. Support Victims of Violence: Volunteer with local organizations that assist victims of violence, such as domestic violence shelters or organizations that provide support for those affected by gun violence.

8. Advocate for Resources: Work collectively to advocate for resources that promote community well-being, such as increased funding for youth programs, mental health services, and initiatives addressing substance abuse.

9. Organize Community Events: Collaborate with law enforcement to organize events that bring community members and officers together in a positive setting. This could include block parties, community clean-up events, or cultural celebrations.

10. Promote Dialogue: Initiate open dialogues within the community about the impacts of violence and strategies to prevent it. Encourage empathy and understanding among community members to address underlying issues.

11. Social Media Awareness: Use social media platforms to share information, resources, and awareness campaigns related to violence prevention. A well-informed community is better equipped to address and prevent violence.

12. Support Mental Health Initiatives: Advocate for improved access to mental health services and re-

SHERIFF BROWN

sources within the community. Mental health plays a significant role in preventing violence and providing support can make a positive impact.

13. Encourage Conflict Resolution: Promote non-violent conflict resolution strategies, both at home and within the community. Teach communication skills that can help individuals manage disagreements without resorting to violence.

14. Participate in Community Cleanup: Organize or participate in community cleanup efforts to create a safer and cleaner environment. Well-maintained neighborhoods can discourage criminal activity.

15. Be a Role Model: Lead by example in your interactions with others. Demonstrating respect, empathy, and patience can contribute to a more positive community atmosphere.

Community policing has been and will continue to be the cornerstone of our approach to law enforcement. Building trust between law enforcement officers and community members is fundamental to preventing violence. Our deputies are dedicated to patrolling neighborhoods, engaging in meaningful conversations, and participating in community events to strengthen our bonds.

I encourage every community member to reach out, share concerns, and collaborate with us to address any potential issues before they escalate. Remember, every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to create a safer and more welcoming community.

By working together and supporting the efforts of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, community members can play a vital role in reducing violence and making Newton County an even better place to live and enjoy.

You are the eyes and ears of our community. If you observe any suspicious or concerning activity, do not hesitate to report it to law enforcement immediately.

Your timely information could be the key to preventing potential acts of violence. Remember, your assistance is crucial in maintaining the safety of our neighborhoods. Our youth represent the future of our community, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are equipped with the tools they need to make informed decisions. We are committed to providing our young residents with positive outlets for their energy and creativity, such as sports programs, talent presentations, and mentorship opportunities. By investing in our youth, we can assist in steering them away from the allure of violence and towards a path of growth and success.

In the face of challenges, our community has consistently demonstrated resilience and unity. Together, we can continue to nurture an environment where safety, respect, and cooperation prevail. Let us stand together in these coming months, committed to protecting our families, friends, and neighbors from the scourge of violence.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and let us work hand in hand to create a brighter, safer future for our beloved Newton County.

Sheriff Ezell Brown Newton County, Georgia

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

SHERIFF BROWN NAMED PINNACLE LEADERSHIP AWARD HONOREE

The Fortitude Educational and Cultural Development Center Inc. presented Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown with the 2023 Pinnacle Leadership Award on June 23, 2023, at the Marriott in Atlanta, Ga.

“First and foremost, I congratulate all the 2023 Pinnacle Leadership Award nominees. Because of the contributions you made to your community, lives have been changed for the better,” said Sheriff Brown. “I am honored to be one of this year’s award nominees. I thank the Fortitude Educational and Cultural Development board members for honoring me with this prestigious award. Also, I thank Winifred Clements for nominating me.”

Sheriff Brown added, “It is my belief that I will always extend a hand to help someone because had it not been for someone extending a hand for me, I would not be where I am today.”

The Pinnacle Leadership Award recognizes local minority women, men, and youth who show commitment to their community, make outstanding contributions to society, and impact the lives of others. The awards are presented annually to leaders who achieved the highest level of success and embodied the highest standards of service, leadership, and character.

Sheriff Brown was one of 12 honorees named for the 2023 Pinnacle Leadership Award.

SHERIFF BROWN SWORN IN AS GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ PRESIDENT

Brown. “This prestigious honor would not have been possible without the late Douglas Digby, who hired me as a Patrol Officer in 1973. He saw something in me — the little boy from South Georgia — and accepted me as a Patrol Officer. I also cannot forget retired Sheriff Gerald B. Malcom, who also saw something in me and allowed me to advance through his leadership; and my predecessor, the late Sheriff Joe Nichols, for continuing to elevate my success.”

Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown was sworn in as the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association President on July 26, 2023, during the GSA’s Annual Awards Banquet in Jekyll Island, Ga.

“I am humbled and honored to accept the responsibility of serving as the President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, a significant milestone in my journey. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to all of my citizens who live within my community who have supported me and elected me for four different terms,” said Sheriff

Sheriff Brown added, “I send my deepest appreciation to the members of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association for entrusting me with the responsibilities of President. I am thankful for my wife, children, siblings, and other family members who have supported my career throughout the years. Additionally, I am thankful for my staff who stand beside me and work hard every day to uphold the mission and values of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.”

Sheriff Brown was elected the first African American Sheriff of Newton County, Ga., on Nov. 4, 2008. He worked in law enforcement in Newton County for more than 35 years before being elected Sheriff. He has more than 49 years of law enforcement experience and oversees a full-service department of approximately 350 employees and more than 600 inmates.

NCSO HOSTS 4TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted their 4th Annual Back to School Golf Tournament at Ashton Hills Golf Course in Covington, Ga., on June 15, 2023.

This year, 55 golfers — a total of 14 teams — participated in the golf tournament. Funds raised at the golf tournament are used to provide students with the proper tools to begin the school year through the Sheriff’s Office’s annual Back to School Giveaway.

“I want to take the time to give a special thanks to all our sponsors, who contributed to the golf tournament to help raise funds for our annual Back to School Giveaway,” said Sheriff Brown. “Also, I thank the volunteers and my staff for going above and beyond to ensure the success of this year’s golf tournament. Because of you, this year’s golf tournament was a great success.”

The sponsors of the 4th annual Back to School Golf Tournament were: A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds, Sellars Motors Inc., Precision Automotive Service, Rush Tees & Signs, Jen on Group LLC, Newton County Board of Commissioners, Ginn Chrysler Jeep Dodge - Ginn Chevrolet, Ronnie’s Small Engine, Inc, Bridgestone Golf, Newton Federal Bank, Call and Go Bail Bonding Inc, Olde Town Awards, The Town House Café, Mike’s Tire Depot, Snapping Shoals EMC, Loyd Glass Company, and Security Warehouse.

NEWTON COUNTY INVESTIGATOR CHARLES AMMONS RETIRES

Newton County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Charles Ammons retired after serving the Newton County community for more than 25 years.

On June 30, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO personnel honored Inv. Ammons during a retirement celebration held inside the ageny’s training. Sheriff Brown presented Inv. Ammons with a retired NCSO investigator badge.

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

During his time in Newton County, Inv. Ammons served in the capacities of the Traffic Unit, Court Services, Uniform Patrol Division, Criminal Investigation Division, District Attorney’s Office (Investigator), and NCSO Office of Professional Standards (Investigator).

SIX INMATE RESIDENTS GRADUATE FROM NCSO RSAT PROGRAM

On June 30, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated six inmate residednts from its Residential Substance Abusement Treatment (RSAT) porgram.

Sheriff Brown, who was accompanied by Detention Capt. Brice Smith and the RSAT facilitators, awarded the certificates of completion to the following graduates: Vanessa Bradshaw, Eric Malcom, Briant Hall, Charles Bailey, Michael Rooks, and Brent Nash. The keynote speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Brunetta Nelson of Imorint Productions, Inc. Following the end of the ceremony, each graduate received a gift from Sheriff Brown in regonition of their accomplishments.

“The Office of the Sheriff stands firm on the belief of rehabilitation, as its the key to success for individuals returning to society as productive citizens. The inmate residents who go through the months-long RSAT program are provided with the tools to live a productive life upon return to society,” said Sheriff Brown. “I realize it does not take just one individual to help these inmate residents; it takes a collective body to ensure each inmate resident is successful during and after the completion of the program. Because of that, I want to thank my staff and all facilitators for going above and beyond to ensure these individuals are successful in their future endeavors.”

The RSAT program provides inmate residents the opportunity for rehabilitation while incarcerated at the Newton County Detention Center. The three-month to six-month program is designed to help individuals develop cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills te solve substance abuse-related problems.

NCSO PARTICIPATES IN ANNUAL JUNETEENTH PARADE

On June 17, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in the Junteenth parade in Covington, Ga.

The parade, which is held annually by the Newton County Historical Committee on Black Heritage Preservation, began at Legion Field and traveled to the square in downtown Covington.

Juneteenth is an officially federal and state holiday that observes the end of slavery in the United States.

NCSO PARTICIPATES IN OXFORD’S FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

On July 4, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in theannual Oxford Independence Day Parade and Celebration. The parade, which began behind the Oxford Baptist Church, was hosted by the City of Oxford and the Oxford Lions Club.

NCSO HOSTS 12TH ANNUAL FILL THE BUS EVENT

Newton County deputies and volunteers were present at the Walmart Supercenter on Salem Road for the Newton County Sheriff’s Office’s 12th Annual Fill The Bus event during the weekends of July 7th and July 14th. During the event, deputies and volunteers asked the community to help all school-aged children in Newton County by providing monetary or school supply donations for the NCSO’s Back to School Supply Giveaway. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO give special thanks to Former Covington Police Department Captain Mike Walden for donating 600 book bags for this year’s Back to School event.

NCSO HOSTS FIRST ART EXHIBIT TO SHOWCASE THE CREATIVE WORKS OF EIGHT INMATE RESIDENTS

On July 20, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted their first art exhibit to showcase the creative works of eight inmate residents. The art exhibit followed the completion of a seven-week online arts and crafts jail program instructed by Dr. Zerric Clinton, Ph.D., a McDonough artist.

“At the Office of the Sheriff of Newton County, it is my passion to help those who have fallen along the way. It is my calling to help rehabilitate those who have lost their way and try to put them on the right path to success,” said Sheriff Brown. “I would not be who I am today had it not been for someone who extended their hands to help me when I could not find my way. To the graduating class, I am very proud of every last one of you. Words cannot express my feelings when I see the emotions you poured into these paintings.”

The NCSO offers more than 20 jail programs, including arts and crafts, as a way to provide the inmate residents with rehabilitation and help them develop skills, so they can re-enter society and reduce recidivism. A majority of the jail programs are online courses, excluding the Workforce Development Program. Inmate residents are provided with the opportunity to earn a forklift operator certification through the Workforce Development Program.

For more information about the jail programs offered at the NCSO, please visit https://www.newtonsheriffga.org/ jailprograms.

SEVEN INMATE RESIDENTS GRADUATE FROM THE NCSO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office, with its continual partnership with Action Inc. and Georgia Piedmont Technical College, graduated seven inmate residents from the Workforce Development Program on July 21, 2023.

The Workforce Development Program is grant-funded and provides inmate residents with on-site training for manufacturing fundamentals, essential employment and life skills, forklift operation and safety, OSHA-10, CPR/ First Aid/AED, and Lean Six Sigma – White Belt. After the completion of the 80-hour training course, inmate residents are provided with 12 months of mentored coaching, employment search, and placement assistance.

“I am a product of vocational education, and I’ve always been very proud of that. All that I’ve learned from the many years of higher education does not, never has, and never will equip me to do the things I can do physically with my hands. I am very proud of every last one of those who completed the program, and I look forward to seeing where these credentials take them in the future,” said Sheriff Brown. “A major factor when considering recidivism is finding a job post-release, and through our partnership with Action, Inc. and Georgia Piedmont Technical College, we can provide inmate residents with the tools necessary to become employed and to prepare them to lead successful lives. I want to express my gratitude to Action, Inc. and Georgia Piedmont Technical College for their continued partnership with us and for providing their time and knowledge to our inmate residents.”

The seven inmate residents not only graduated from the Workforce Development Program at the NCSO but they also became college alumnus at the same time, having

received various certifications and industry-recognized credentials from the division of economic development through GPTC. Dr. Tavarez Holston, President of Georgia Piedmont Technical College, said for some inmate residents, this was the first time they were offered the chance of a higher education.

“We are all here to support each and every one of you,” Dr. Holston said. “This is a reminder that your circumstances do not determine your value. You are valued and you will bring value to your family, community, and most of all, to yourselves.”

The Newton County Detention Center offers more than 20 reentry programs including but not limited to: Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT), General Education Development (GED), Soft Skills Development, Substance Abuse Matrix Model, Anger Management, Alcohol Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous, Double Trouble, Thinking for Change, Celebrate Recovery, Parenting Value, Fatherhood, Creating Healthy Options Increases Choices to Effective Solutions (CHOICES), #1 Dads, and Moral Resonation Therapy (MRT).

A full list of the NCSO’s reentry programs can be found at https://www.newtonsheriffga.org/jailprograms.

WE ARE CHANGING LIVES AT THE NCSO

NCSO HOSTS 12TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY

Sheriff Ezell Brown, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, and its partners provided school supplies and book bags to more than 6,000 school-aged children during their 12th Annual Back to School Supply Giveaway held on July 29, 2023, at Newton High School.

“Fire and foremost, I give special thanks to now retired Superintendent Dr. Samantha Fuhrey, Interim Superintendent Benjamin Roundtree, Dr. Shannon Bugg, the Newton County Board of Education, and the Newton High School staff for allowing the Office of the Sheriff to host its event at Newton High School,” said Sheriff Brown. “I thank all the sponsors and volunteers who helped ensure this year’s Back to School Supply Giveaway 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. Because of this joint effort, we were able to provide 50% more book bags this year than we did last year.”

Sheriff Brown and the NCSO would like to acknowledge the following vendors and sponsors that contributed to the 12th Annual Back to School Supply Giveaway: Covington Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Chi Tau Omega; Kappa Alpha Psi; Opioid Surveillance; Drug Enforcement Agency Outreach; Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse; Newton County Division of Family & Children Services; Newton County Juvenile Court; Issa Funnel; Fun High Bounce House; Diverse Bounce House Rental; DJ A-Rock; Creative Touch Counseling Center, Inc.; Mr. Whit BBQ; The Taco Truck; and Top Views Roofing.

NCSO WINS SECOND PLACE IN GSA’S YOUTH HOMES FUNDRAISING

In the month of July, Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Former President Sheriff Steve Jessup of McIntosh County presented Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office with a second place award for the annual fundraising event for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes.

“I stand by my belief to always extend a hand to help someone in need because had it not been for someone who extended their hand to help me when I could not find my way, I would not be where I am today,” said Sheriff Brown. “I want to send my sincerest gratitude to all the donors who invested in the mission and values of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. The work and the achievements of the staff and students would not be possible without your donations and commitment to our cause.”

The Sheriffs of Georgia established the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes more than 60 years ago to give the most at-risk children in the State of Georgia the love, safety, and stability needed to become proactive adults. Children who come to Youth Homes are placed in a family setting and are provided not only food, shelter, and clothing but a safe and loving place to call home where they can begin to rebuild their lives.

NCSO HOSTS THE FBI-LEEDA TRAINING PROGRAM

From July 17th through July 21st, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted the FBI-LEEDA Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) training program, the final step in a three-step leadership series that makes up the FBI-lEEDA Trilogy. A total of 18 law enforcement agencies attended the four-and-a-halfday program— two were from out of state, and two were from the NCSO.

The FBI-LEEDA ELI is designed for executive-level law enforcement leaders and leaders aspiring to be in executive-level leadership positions. ELI focuses on the emerging challenges facing 21st-century police leaders as well as planning and navigating the political waters of executive leadership.

Chalsea Tucker Detention Officer Ean Foster Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Kawana Dixon Deputy Sheriff, Recruit Lorenza Williams Deputy Sheriff, Certified