March 2025

NCSO march 2025 newsletter

JANUARY 2024

A MOMENT WITH

MARCHING FOWARD: HONORING WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT

As we welcome the month of March, we take time to reflect, show appreciation and renew our commitment to supporting women in law enforcement. March marks not only the beginning of spring — a time of growth and renewal — but also Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the incredible women who have made an impact in our profession and continue to lead with strength and purpose.

At the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, we understand that diversity makes us stronger. Women bring valuable skills, fresh perspectives and a deep commitment to serving the community. They lead with empathy, approach challenges with creativity and show strength in the face of adversity. I am proud of the outstanding work carried out daily by the agency’s female deputies, investigators, corrections officers and civilian staff. Their contributions are meaningful and help move the agency forward.

However, recognition must go beyond words. It is important to create a workplace where more women are encouraged to join law enforcement and where those already serving feel supported and have opportunities to grow in their careers. One powerful way to do that is through mentorship. When experienced officers take the time to

guide and support newer team members, they help build confidence, share knowledge and create a stronger, more inclusive team. I encourage all personnel to take an active role in mentoring and creating a culture of excellence and support.

Mentorship not only helps the individual being guided but also strengthens the entire agency by building trust, teamwork and leadership across the board. It helps break down outdated stereotypes and provides women with the support they need to succeed in leadership roles.

The Office of the Sheriff also encourages its personnel to connect with local schools, colleges and community organizations. Speaking at career days, offering ride-alongs and engaging with students helps show young women that law enforcement is a rewarding and meaningful career.

The future of the profession depends on the efforts we make today to inspire and encourage the next generation of leaders.

In addition to encouraging growth and recruitment, it’s important to celebrate the women currently serving within our ranks. These dedicated professionals put their lives on the line each day to protect Newton County’s residents and businesses. Their stories are a testament to

SHERIFF BROWN the strength, courage and commitment that define the profession.

The agency also encourages all female personnel to pursue training, education and leadership opportunities.

Advancement in law enforcement should never be limited by gender. It is the responsibility of leadership to ensure that everyone has access to the tools and experiences needed to grow their careers.

Women’s History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made in law enforcement — from the appointment of Alice Stebbins Wells as the first sworn female police officer in 1910 to the many women now serving in every role, including patrol officers, investigators, SWAT team members and chiefs of police. March 8th also marks International Women’s Day, a time to celebrate the female officers, staff and community leaders who make a difference in Newton County and beyond.

Law enforcement agencies across the country will use this month to recognize the achievements of women in the field, and the Office of the Sheriff is proud to do the same. Through outreach events, recognition efforts and ongoing community engagement, the agency honors the critical role that women play in public safety and trust-building.

As we celebrate the achievements of women in law enforcement, we also reaffirm our commitment to unity,

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, GA

equity and progress. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is stronger because of the diversity of its people, and the agency will continue building a culture where every individual — regardless of gender, background or experience — can thrive.

To the women of NCSO: Thank you. Your courage, dedication and leadership inspire us all. Your service makes a lasting difference in the lives of those you protect.

To the community: Let us stand together in support, recognition and action. Let’s continue to celebrate the achievements of women in law enforcement while working to ensure that the next generation has the encouragement and opportunities they deserve.

This month, let us not only celebrate — let us elevate.

Together, we move forward.

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

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ACHIEVES CALEA REACCREDITATION Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office announces the agency has achieved international reaccreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) as of March 2025.

Initially accredited in 2016, this recognition highlights the agency’s ongoing dedication to maintaining professional standards and following internationally recognized best practices for law enforcement.

CALEA accreditation is a voluntary process that reflects the agency’s commitment to professional excellence. It requires developing comprehensive policies, maintaining transparent reporting practices and implementing structured decision-making processes to improve organizational effectiveness. Additionally, it prepares the agency to respond to both natural and human-made critical incidents while strengthening relationships within the community.

Sheriff Ezell Brown expressed his appreciation for the

dedicated efforts of his staff and support from the community. He said, “Achieving reaccreditation through CALEA shows our continued commitment to upholding the highest standards in law enforcement. We value the trust our community places in us and remain committed to maintaining public safety through professionalism and accountability.”

To maintain accreditation, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office must consistently demonstrate adherence to CALEA’s rigorous standards. The agency undergoes an annual web-based assessment and a site-based assessment every four years. During this visit, a CALEA representative assesses the agency’s compliance by inspecting facilities, equipment, personnel and operations, as well as conducting interviews with staff, community members, government officials and partner agencies.

For more information about CALEA and the accreditation process, visit www.calea.org.

NCSO GRADUATES LIVE OAK STUDENTS FROM C.H.A.M.P.S. PROGRAM Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated more than 100 Live Oak Elementary School students from the Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety (C.H.A.M.P.S.) program on March 7, 2025.

The C.H.A.M.P.S. program is taught to every fifth grader in the Newton County School System and covers topics such as drug, alcohol and tobacco abuse prevention; gangs and violence; peer pressure and bullying; internet safety; methamphetamine; and cocaine. The instructors — Deputies Tim Smith, Michael Gregg and Kimberly Cox — are certified to teach by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and tailor lesson plans to meet the specific needs of each school.

The goal of the program is to equip students with the skills they need to succeed and help them avoid the obstacles they may face. Sheriff Brown also challenges C.H.A.M.P.S. students to be NBA stars — Never Be Arrested.

Sheriff Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office thank Newton County School System Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III, the Newton County Board of Education, and the principals, teachers and staff at Live Oak Elementary for their role in making the C.H.A.M.P.S. program a success.

COVINGTON ACADEMY LIFTS NEWTON COUNTY DEPUTIES IN PRAYER

On March 12, 2025, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office were honored to welcome the students and staff of Covington Academy for a meaningful time of prayer dedicated to deputies and law enforcement officers across the nation. Their presence, support, and words of encouragement were a powerful reminder of the strength and unity found within our community.

Sheriff Brown and the Sheriff’s Office extend their sincere gratitude to Covington Academy for their uplifting spirit and for standing in solidarity with those who serve and protect.

NCSO SHOWS SUPPORTS FOR DOWN RIGHT PERFECT WALK On March 15, 2025, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit attended the Down Right Perfect Walk at Legion Field.

Down Right Perfect is a newly established local nonprofit foundation committed to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and raising awareness throughout the community.

The Sheriff’s Office was honored to stand alongside this impactful organization in its mission to advocate, educate and celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. Events like this serve as a reminder of the power of unity and the positive change that comes from working together.

NCSO ENGAGES FUTURE LEADERS AT STEAM ACADEMY CAREER DAY On March 17, 2025, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in the Newton County STEAM Academy’s Career Day, engaging with students and sharing valuable insights into careers in law enforcement.

Deputies enjoyed answering questions, offering guidance and inspiring the next generation of leaders and public servants.

Events like this play a vital role in building connections within the community and fostering interest in meaningful careers.

The Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere thanks to Newton County STEAM Academy for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful day.

DR. SAMPSON LEADS EXPANDED PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID TRAINING Following his initial session on Psychological First Aid (PFA) on February 26, Dr. Stephen Sampson returned to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office throughout the month of March to lead multiple in-depth classes for law enforcement and faith-based leaders.

These sessions built upon the foundational concepts introduced during his first visit, offering a deeper dive into the principles and practical application of PFA. Participants explored how to effectively recognize signs of trauma, provide immediate emotional support, and connect individuals to appropriate resources.

NCSO UNDERGOES NCCHC REACCREDITATION AUDIT

From March 17-19, 2025, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office underwent an audit for reaccreditation through the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC). The NCCHC accreditation serves as evidence that the Sheriff’s Office provides a standardized system of care for inmates, leading to better health outcomes and reducing public health risks when individuals return to the community.

NCCHC auditors assess a facility’s compliance with 59 standards and nearly 400 compliance indicators through a thorough review of patient health records, documentation, staff and patient interviews and observation of processes.

Their evaluation is critical in ensuring the credibility and integrity of NCCHC’s accreditation program.

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Addie Massey

Preston Moore

Jamalia Chisholm

DeVante’ Spencer

Detention Officer

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

Detention Officer

Deputy Sheriff, Recruit

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

COMMITMENT loyalty

sacrifice dedication

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