October 2023

NCSO october 2023 newsletter

A MOMENT WITH BRINGING AWARENESS TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when we all come together to bring awareness to the realities of domestic violence. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is committed in its resolve to stand alongside other organizations throughout the state of Georgia and the nation in reducing the number of domestic violence-related incidents.

Before I speak on the dangers of domestic violence, I think it is appropriate to first provide you with some statistics that emphasize the gravity of this issue. The numbers are a reminder of the growing problem that impacts our nation.

1. In the United States, approximately one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.

2. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, which equates to an excess of 10 million women and men each year.

3. Domestic violence transcends physical abuse; it encompasses emotional, psychological, and financial abuse that can leave victims scarred, both mentally and physically.

4. Moreover, the impacts are not limited to the immediate victims but extend to children who are exposed to this violence. These children are at greater risk of experiencing abuse, neglect and emotional trauma that can reverberate throughout their lives.

These statistics emphasize the challenge we face, and it is our collective responsibility to combat domestic violence and the countless ways it presents itself.

Allow me to point out some of the dangers of domestic violence: The dangers associated with domestic violence are far-reaching and affect every facet of our lives, transcending age, gender, socioeconomic status, and background: Number one, The Physical Harm: The immediate consequences of domestic violence often manifest as physical injuries, ranging from bruises and cuts to more severe, life-threatening injuries.

The scars of physical abuse are visible, but the trauma beneath the surface runs deep.

Number two, The Psychological Trauma: The emotional and psychological abuse that characterizes many instances of domestic violence can have devastating effects on victims. It can lead to severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and a profound sense of helplessness.

Number three, Cycles of Domestic Violence: Domestic violence tends to escalate over time, leading to a vicious cycle of abuse that can be incredibly difficult for victims to escape. The dynamics of power and control perpetuate this cycle, often trapping victims in a never-ending nightmare.

Finally, number four is the Impact it has on Children: Children exposed to domestic violence are the hidden victims of these situations. They are at a higher risk of experiencing abuse, neglect, and emotional trauma, which can shape their lives in ways we cannot underestimate.

Domestic violence tears at the very fabric of our society, eroding trust, safety and emotional well-being. It leaves a trail of devastation that extends far beyond the immediate victim, reaching far into families, communities and the very core of our society. It is a crisis that demands our steadfast consideration and action.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office’s Commitment: The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is committed in its dedication to addressing the issue of domestic violence within its community. The Office of the Sheriff stands ready to protect and serve, providing a safety net for those in desperate need of assistance.

Newton County deputies are trained to respond to domestic violence situations with utmost sensitivity and professionalism. They understand the importance of empathy and support for victims who may be experiencing the worst moments of their lives. They are here to listen, to act and to ensure that justice is served.

SHERIFF BROWN Furthermore, the Office of the Sheriff collaborates closely with local organizations and support services that offer the necessary assistance, including shelters and counseling. Victims of domestic violence must know that they are not alone; help is available and the Office of the Sheriff will guide them toward the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as an annual reminder for all of us to come together as a community. It is a time for us to engage in open dialogues about this critical issue, attend local events and demonstrate our support for survivors. By fostering a safe and supportive environment where victims feel empowered to seek help, we can break the cycle of abuse.

I call upon all residents of Newton County to be vigilant and proactive. If you suspect domestic violence or know someone who is a victim, please reach out and offer your support. Your kindness and willingness to stand up against violence can make a world of difference to someone in need.

In conclusion, let us remember that our strength as a community is in our unity. It is our collective responsibility to fight against domestic violence and to support survivors on their journey to healing and empowerment. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive Newton County for everyone.

If you or someone you know is in immediate

Sheriff Ezell Brown

Newton County, Georgia

danger, please do not hesitate to call 911. For resources, support, and information, you can also contact the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit at 678-625-1445.

Thank you for your dedication to our community. Together, we can work towards a future where no one is forced to endure the pain and suffering caused by domestic violence. Let us stand strong against domestic violence, supporting survivors and making our community a beacon of hope and resilience.

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 ATTENDS US MARSHAL SERVICES ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

On Oct. 4, 2023, Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown attended a roundtable discussion hosted by the United States Marshal Services.

“I want to thank Director Ronald L. Davis of the United States Marshals Service and United States Marshal Thomas Brown of the Northern District of Georgia for inviting me to the roundtable discussion with federal, state and local law enforcement leadership on October 4th,” said Sheriff Brown. “I am honored to be part of this collaborative effort between not only the law enforcement agencies in the State of Georgia but the United States of America.”

Topics mentioned during the discussion included but were not limited to serious violent crimes and gangs; homelessness/mental illness; jail population increase and in-custody deaths; the health and wellness of officers; the inability to hire individuals on local, state and federal levels due to all agencies competing against the same pool of applicants; and creating a national standard way of performing law enforcement duties, such as tactics and communications.

SHERIFF MAKES SMOOTHIES FOR STEM INSTITUTE STUDENTS On Oct. 27, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and Detention Officer Mia Johnson served Newton College and Career Academy STEM Institute’s After School Academic Program (ASAP) students with homemade smoothies as a way to educate the younger generation on the benefits of eating healthy. The smoothies were made by Sheriff Brown and Detention Officer Johnson.

NCSO PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL FAITH AND BLUE 2023

More than 4,500 community members, organizations and businesses showed up for this year’s National Faith and Blue Weekend (NFBW) in Newton County, Ga., hosted by Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office from October 6th through October 8th.

Sheriff Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted the following events for this year’s NFBW: 4th Annual K-9 Blessing, Community/ First Responders Luncheon, It’s Fall, Y’all Community Festival plus Sling & Bike Show, 3rd Annual Faith & Blue Car Show and 4th Annual Corporate Prayer on the Square. NFBW is a nationwide initiative that began in 2020 by Movement Forward, Inc., in partnership with the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the U.S. Department of Justice, with the mission to build bridges between communities through activities jointly hosted by local places of worship, law enforcement agencies, businesses and organizations.

“Faith and Blue is based on the premise that strong communities are built through mutual respect and understanding. Law enforcement agencies and faith-based institutions are key pillars of each community, and when they work together, neighborhoods thrive. There is no resource that can match the depth of the faith community in facilitating productive engagement with law enforcement, which is needed now more than ever,” said Sheriff Brown. “As the Chief law enforcement agency within the County, I believe I owe the community more than I could ever give. Particularly, this being a faith-based coalition, involving law enforcement, putting God first is up most important. This is a way of building pillars in the community and building public trust while working for the public good. I see it as being an investment before bad things happen. Success is built on trust and all of the community working together. We must constantly work on principals of fairness, transparency and impartiality.”

Sheriff Brown continued, “Leadership is a trust given to you by the people you inspire. The community trust you as Sheriff to be the gatekeeper in any and all situations. You have to be the person that can bring calm to the community in turbulence times and that very same person to inspire a child or any adult to be a better citizen. As Sheriff, families trust you with their children, they trust you with their family issues and you may be the sounding board for many citizens in the community. Your heart has to be right! I personally believe what is said in Luke 12:48: For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.”

Sheriff Brown thanks the following businesses, organizations, and individuals for partnering with the NCSO for this year’s National Faith and Blue Weekend: City of Covington Police Department, Oxford Police Department, Department of Natural Resources, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Fire Services, Covington Fire Department, Covington-Newton 911 Center, Rev. Russell Graves of Clear View Ministries Church in Covington, Reverend James Russell with New Growth Baptist Church, Henry County Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, Butts County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Medivac, State of Georgia Motor Carrier Division, The Church Covington, Greater Love Church, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Rainbow Covington Church, Piedmont Newton, View Point Health, Past Project, A Child Voice, North Georgia Agency on Aging, Rockdale Drug Free Coalition, Partners In Prevention Project, GRN Public Health, CAT.10ent.radio, Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families, Atlanta Sling Community, Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), All of Us Research Program, Covington Family Chiropractic, The Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Grit & Grace, That’s Nice Fashion Boutique, One Pill Can Kill, Chance, Newton County Drug Free Coalition, Rockdale Drug free Coalition, Newton Rockdale Suicide Prevention, Newton Board of Education, She Still Persist Inc. The Tassel Garden, Sarah Cloud Beads, Georgia Primary Care, Just 4 U yard Cards, Smile Tuners, Let’s Be Clear GA, Give Me Hope, Inc, Meesa Loves Chocolate, Tanger, Educational Service, Lux Diamondz LLC, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Jenaes Banana Pudding, Progress Place, Inc., DEA/Ocean Bay LLC, Unido Latino Association, Adapt Zoo Party Crew, McCants Realtor, Buttercups Shop, Ella J. Candles Company, The Opening of Closed Doors, Scripted Naturals, Guide Inc., Issa Funnel Cake, Big Al’s BBQ, The Taco Truck, Slutty Vegan, Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, Georgia Department of Public Safety, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office, Macedonia Baptist Church, Murray Memorial CME Church, Covington First UMC, Prospect Church and The Potter’s House.

CONGRATULATIONS TO INVESTIGATORS BROCE AND BOWLES!

On October 11th, the Newton County District Attorney’s Office prosecuted Michael Patrick Phillips for the charges of 2 counts of aggravated child molestation and two counts of child molestation. Investigator Broce was the lead investigator on the case. Without her outstanding investigatory skills, the defendant would not have been charged and convicted, receiving multiple life sentences. He was previously convicted on similar charges

in 2000 and received not only a seven-year sentence in Rockdale County but a 20-year sentence with the first 10 years in prison in Newton County.

In addition to Investigator Broce’s success in this case, Sheriff Ezell Brown would also like to recognize A Child’s Voice Child Advocacy Center for providing their services to the victim.

On October 20th, Sheriff Ezell Brown received a letter from the Newton County District Attorney’s Office recognizing the dedication and outstanding work of Investigator Bowles. During the jury trial held during the week of September 5, 2023, where the State prosecuted Shaquell Fischer for the charges of murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, Investigator Bowles was prepared to answer all questions presented to him and “held himself in a dignified manner during the direct and cross examinations” as a crime scene investigator, as stated in the letter.

The letter goes on to say Investigator Bowles “takes pride in his work and has a true passion for his job. He goes above and beyond in his job; his great attitude and willingness to assist is to be commended.”

Sheriff Brown congratulates both Investigator Broce and Investigator Bowles for a job well done. He thanks them for their dedication and commitment to serving all those in Newton County.

NCSO ATTENDS POLICE APPRECIATION EVENT AT BOJANGLES

On Oct. 26, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office attended the Police Appreciation Event hosted by Town Values Magazine at the Bojangles in Covington, Ga. All active duty first responders were invited to join Marc and Liliana McMain, the owners of Town Values Magazine, as they recognize the Newton County community’s first responders.

NCSO H.E.A.T. UNIT HOSTS THE OCTOBER CRTEN MEETING On October 24th, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) Unit hosted the October Central Regional Traffic Enforcement Network (CRTEN) meeting for the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

As part of October’s CRTEN meeting, the Georgia State Patrol, Motor Carrier Compliance Division and NCSO H.E.A.T. Unit conducted traffic enforcement at the intersection of Salem Road and Brown Bridge Road. The traffic enforcement — geared towards occupant protection and distracted driving — yielded 86 traffic stops, 116 violations and two unsafe commercial vehicles being placed out of service.

Sheriff Ezell Brown would like to thank the Covington Police Department, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Public Safety, Georgia State Patrol, Motor Carrier Compliance Division and Covington-Newton 911 Center for helping with the traffic enforcement.

Please buckle up every trip, and do not drive distracted!

SHERIFF BROWN SWEARS IN THREE NEWLY-HIRED EMPLOYEES

In the month of October, Sheriff Ezell Brown administered the Oath of Office to three newly-hired employees during a ceremony held inside the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Training Room. The employees who took the Oath of Office were Court Services Detention Officer John Swiney, Detention Officer Eddie Hosey and Detention Officer Nolley Ulandria.

FORMER GRADUATE OF NCSO JAIL PROGRAMS PROVIDES TESTIMONY Briant Hall is a graduate of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office’s Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) and Workforce Development programs. During the Workforce Development graduation on Oct. 27, 2023, he provided the following testimony: “You are going to have those out there that are going to remember who you were, and they are going to hold you to that.

I refuse to look back and go back to who I once was. I took that hand up that [the Newton County Sheriff’s Office] offered me. I stayed consistent. Everything they said to do, I did. With all the encouragement they gave me, I took it to heart, and I built on it.

They don’t mean anything but good, or else they going to see you back in here. We don’t want to be here. None of us.

That’s the whole purpose of why we are taking these steps to become a better person. Don’t just say you want to become a better person, then lay the tools they gave you by the wayside.

Because believe me, [those tools] work. I’m here now fixing to be a year clean and working [full-time]. You got to stay consistent, and God will open doors for you.”

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is changing lives! To learn more about the programs at the Newton County Detention Center, visit https://www.newtonsheriffga.org/jailprograms.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY, VISIT WWW.NEWTONSHERIFFGA.ORG

NCSO GRADUATES SIX INMATE RESIDENTS FROM RSAT PROGRAM On Oct. 26, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated six inmate residents from its Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program in a ceremony held inside the agency’s training room.

Sheriff Brown, who was accompanied by Detention Capt. Brice Smith and the RSAT facilitators, awarded the certificates of completion to the following graduates: Caycee Spears, Jared Roper, John Smith, Tmiya Woods, Kierra Roberts and Tiffany Morgan.

“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 designated to help individuals develop cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills to solve substance abuse-related problems.

WORKFORCE

NINE INMATE RESIDENTS GRADUATE FROM NCSO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM The Newton County Sheriff’s Office, with its continual partnership with Action Inc. and Workforce Innovators of America, graduated nine inmate residents from the Workforce Development Program on Oct. 27, 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 Workforce Innovators of America, 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 Workforce Innovators of America for their continued partnership with us and for providing their time and knowledge to our inmate residents.”

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

Abiding Grace fall festival

On Oct. 8, 2023, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Communiy Outreach Unit attended the annual fall festial hosted by Pastor Jonathan Scharf and Abiding Grace Lutheran Church.

CHANGE the world Day

On Oct. 21, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office attended the annual Change The World Day at Covington First United Methodist Church.

There were hundreds of people who showed up to receive goods and services from local organizations.

Fall Community Events

Mitcham Farms fall festival

On Oct. 14, 2023 the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Traffic and Community Outreach Units attended the Mitcham Farms Fall Festival in Oxford, Ga.

Mansfield Baptist Fall family fun night

On Oct. 28, 2023, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit attended the Mansfield Fall Family Fun Night at Mansfield Baptist Church.

NCSO GOES PINK FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Sherff Ezell Brown released the following message during the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is lit pink in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is a battle fought by both men and women. It’s important to understand the profound effects breast cancer can have on both genders.

For women, breast cancer is an incredible reality.

Millions of women are diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide each year. Its effects are not only physical but emotional and psychological. The physical toll includes surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation, often leaving scars both seen and unseen. The emotional toll involves fear and anxiety.

Breast cancer can disrupt lives, but it also showcases the remarkable strength and resilience of women who face it head-on. The perception that it’s primarily a women’s

disease can lead to delayed diagnosis, affecting treatment outcomes. When men receive a diagnosis, they navigate a path where awareness and support are crucial, just as for women. So MEN, BE AWARE! In conclusion, breast cancer respects no gender boundaries. It reminds us of the strength of the human spirit, the importance of early detection and has saved hundred thousand people over the years.

Let us unite in our efforts to raise awareness, support research and provide to those affected, regardless of gender.

SHERIFF PARTICIAPTES IN BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WALK On Oct. 27, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown participated in the Breast Cancer Walk at Creekview Heights in Covington, Ga.

SHERIFF PARTICIAPTES IN “WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES” EVENT On Oct. 28, 2023, Sheriff Ezell Brown and Newton County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit Leader Lt. Wade Freeman attended the third annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes on the Covington Square, hosted by the Newton County Domestic Violence Task Force.

The Domestic Violence Unit reviews every family violence report that is taken by the NCSO. Often times responding deputies are unable to take charges because of a lack of probable cause at the time of report. By reviewing these reports, it will allow the NCSO to explore ways of developing probable cause and prosecuting more family violence/domestic abuse cases in Newton County.

The Domestic Violence Unit also acts as a point of contact for the victims of these cases, making sure that the perpetrators abide by the conditions of their bond and/or temporary protective orders (TPOs), if either applies.

17TH ANNUAL SEX OFFENDER COMPLIANCE CHECK On Oct. 31, 2023, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Department of Community Supervision, hosted the 17th Annual Sex Offender Compliance Check for registered sex offenders residing in the Newton County area.

Investigator Veronica Williams, alongside probation and parole officers, hosted this annual event to ensure highrisk sex offenders are appropriately supervised while families participate in Halloween festivities. The NCSO’s Sex Offender Compliance Check was initiated in 2006 and became part of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association’s annual initiative, Operation Watchful Eye, in 2015.

This year, Operation Watchful Eye involved 73 Georgia Sheriffs, 12,092 registered sex offenders, 466 predators, and 552 homeless sex offenders. There was a total of 44 sex offenders arrested and 234 warrants issued across the state of Georgia from October 30th through November 6th.

In Newton County, there are currently 324 registered

sex offenders. There were two arrests made in the community during this year’s event, dated between October 30th and November 6th. A current list of registered sex offenders can be accessed on the NCSO’s website at www. newtonsheriffga.org.

Happy Halloween!

On Oct. 31, 2023, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in the annual Trick-or-Treat on the Trail at Legion Field in Covington, Georgia, hosted by the The Covington Family YMCA, City of Covington and Newton Trails. Families who attended this year’s Trick-or-Treat on the Trail enjoyed the various candy stations located on the field and on portions of Cricket Frog Trail.

WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Kevin Castillo

John Swiney

Eddie Hosey

Nolley Ulandria

Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Detention Officer Court Services

Detention Officer

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

COMMITMENT loyalty sacrifice dedication www.newtonsheriffga.org