NCSO October 2025 newsletter
JANUARY 20
A MOMENT WITH OCTOBER: A SEASON OF AWARENESS, COMPASSION AND UNITY As the Sheriff of Newton County, it is my privilege and responsibility to serve not only as the chief law enforcement officer of this great county but also as a voice of encouragement, awareness and unity for our community. Each month brings unique opportunities to reflect, grow and stand together. Every year, October holds a special place in our hearts because it shines a spotlight on two critical issues that touch countless lives: Domestic Violence Awareness and Breast Cancer Awareness. These are not simply topics for awareness campaigns; they are realities that affect our families, our neighborhoods and our entire county. They challenge us to be vigilant, compassionate and proactive. They call us to come together — law enforcement, faith leaders, businesses and citizens — with one united purpose: to care for and protect the people of Newton County. Domestic violence hides too often behind closed doors. It is a devastating reality that impacts individuals regardless of age, gender, race or economic status. At the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, we know the trauma it causes — the broken lives, the silent suffering, the children who witness acts no child should ever see and the families left shattered. But we also know that silence allows violence to thrive. Therefore, our duty as law enforcement officers, neighbors and family members is to break that silence. We must speak loudly for those who feel voiceless and powerless. We must provide avenues of safety, accountability and healing. Domestic violence is not only a crime; it is a violation of the sacredness of home, of trust and of human dignity. We take it seriously, and we stand with victims. Every deputy, investigator and staff member is committed to protecting victims, holding offenders accountable and working with community organizations to create pathways of safety and recovery. My message to every citizen of Newton County is this: You are not alone. You do not have to suffer in silence. We are here. Your community is here. Together, we can break the cycle.
One of the most powerful reminders I carry with me is this: “Silence protects the abuser, but speaking out protects the survivor.” Let us commit ourselves — not only in October but every month — to creating a Newton County where every home is safe, every person is respected and no cry for help goes unheard. Alongside Domestic Violence Awareness, October also reminds us of another battle that affects so many lives: Breast Cancer. It is a disease that knows no boundaries, touching the lives of mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, fathers, sons and brothers. As Sheriff, I have had the honor of walking beside families in our community who have fought the difficult fight against breast cancer. I have seen their courage, their strength and their determination to live. I have met families who have experienced the loss of loved ones and are engaged in efforts related to awareness, early detection and research. Breast Cancer Awareness is not just about statistics; it is about faces, names and families right here in Newton County. It is about making sure our community members have the information, resources and support they need to pursue early detection and treatment. It is about walking with our survivors and encouraging those who are still fighting. Today and every day, let us remember that awareness saves lives. Let us encourage regular screenings, open conversations and support systems that provide strength and hope. Whether through fundraisers, educational events or simple acts of kindness, every effort makes a difference. In both these battles, against domestic violence and breast cancer, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office is not just a law enforcement agency. We are partners, supporters and advocates. We recognize that our role extends beyond patrols and investigations; it reaches into the heart of community well-being. But just as important as what we do as a Sheriff’s Office is what we do together as a county. Faith leaders, business owners, educators, health care providers and community organizations all play critical roles in raising awareness and offering support. It
SHERIFF BROWN is only through unity that we can create lasting change. I would like to take a moment to address our faith community, business community and every citizen of Newton County.
• To Our Faith Leaders: You are often among the first trusted voices turned to when someone seeks refuge from domestic violence or when a family is navigating a breast-cancer diagnosis. The comfort offered through prayer, counsel and the creation of safe, encouraging spaces remains invaluable. Your presence continues to be a light for many during their darkest moments. • To Our Business Leaders: Your influence reaches well beyond the world of commerce. Through your support of awareness efforts, fundraising and community initiatives, you help strengthen the foundation of our county and uplift those who call it home. • To Every Citizen: Whether it shows up in volunteer work, participation in awareness events or a simple check-in on a neighbor, the compassion you share adds to Newton County’s strength. Each small act of kindness contributes to a community built on resilience and care. I would be remiss if I did not address the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Each day, you serve with dedication and courage. Your work is not limited to enforcing laws; it is about protecting lives and standing as a shield for the vulnerable. When you respond to a domestic violence call, participate in a breast cancer awareness fundraiser or stand with a grieving family, you represent not
Sheriff Ezell Brown
Newton County, GA
only the Office of the Sheriff but the very heart of Newton County. I am proud of each of you and grateful for your service. Next October, let us do more than wear ribbons or attend events — though those acts are meaningful. Let us embody awareness through action: • Speak up if you suspect domestic violence. • Offer support to those in treatment for breast cancer. • Share information, encourage screenings and educate others. • Stand united as a community that values life, dignity and hope. Let Newton County be a beacon of what it means to care deeply for one another. As your Sheriff, I stand committed not only to protecting your safety but also to nurturing the well-being of our entire community. Domestic violence and breast cancer are battles too large for any one person or agency to fight alone — but together, we are stronger than any challenge. Newton County, let us be great, not just in words, but in action.
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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NCSO DRIVES AWARENESS ACROSS NEWTON COUNTY
In October, you may have noticed a different-colored Sheriff’s Office vehicle on the streets of Newton County. The agency’s Awareness Vehicle returned to help shine a light on two important causes: Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of early detection and supporting those affected. Together, we can spread awareness and encourage regular screenings. Learn more at breastcancer.org. Domestic Violence Awareness Month raises awareness about the need to recognize, prevent and respond to domestic violence in our communities. If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available at thehotline.org. When you saw our pink-and-purple patrol vehicle out in the community, Sheriff Ezell Brown hoped it served as a visible reminder to support, educate, and stand together for awareness and change.
INVESTIGATOR RETIRES AFTER MORE THAN 15 YEARS OF SERVICE
On Oct. 2, Investigator Greg Dial, who served in the Criminal Investigations Division, retired after more than 15 years of dedicated service at the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. A retirement celebration was held at NCSO headquarters, where Investigator Dial signed off for the final time. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the entire NCSO team joined in honoring his career and contributions to the community. We wish Investigator Dial a happy and fulfilling retirement!
NCSO HOSTS SIX ANNUAL NATIONAL FAITH AND BLUE WEEKEND
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, along with community members, local faith-based organizations and area businesses, came together to celebrate the Sixth Annual National Faith and Blue Weekend from Oct. 3-5 This year, Sheriff Brown and the NCSO organized a variety of events, including the K-9 and First Responders Blessing and Luncheon, It’s Fall Y’all Fall Festival, the Faith and Blue Car, Bike and Sling Show. Unfortunately, the Corporate Prayer was canceled due to inclement weather, but the agency looks forward to hosting it next year. National Faith and Blue Weekend is a nationwide initiative launched in 2020 by Movement Forward Inc., in partnership with the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and the U.S. Department of Justice. Its mission is to strengthen communities through collaborative activities hosted by faithbased organizations and law enforcement agencies. “Faith and Blue emphasizes that strong communities are built on mutual respect and understanding,” Sheriff Brown said. “Law enforcement and local faith-based organizations play a vital role in community health. The faith community excels at fostering engagement with law enforcement, which is more important now than ever. As the Chief Law Enforcement Officer, I strive to serve the community wth trust, collaboration, fairness and transparency.”
THANK YOU TO ALL FAITH AND BLUE SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS!
Sheriff Brown expressed his gratitude to the following local businesses, faith-based organizations and individuals who sponsored this year’s National Faith and Blue Weekend: Central Church, The Church Covington, Joe Sellars (Sellars Motors), The Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Ivey League Trophy, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Greater Love Fellowship Tabernacle, Covington Police Department, Porterdale Police Department, Oxford Police Department, Newton County Fire Service, City of Covington Fire Service, Newton County 911 Dispatch Center, Central EMS, Georgia State Patrol, Henry County Police Department, Butts County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe Police Department and Conyers Police Department. Sheriff Brown also thanked those who supported the events: City of Mansfield Government, City of Newborn Government, Springfield Baptist Church, West Street Baptist Church, Overcomers Cathedral Tabernacle of Prayer, Academy for Family Empowerment, Angels of Light Single Parent Support Group, Futures Without Fear Inc., Guide Inc., Helping Hands Community-Based Services, Empowered Women of Prayer, Newton County Board of Elections and Registration, Newton County Drug-Free Community Coalition, The Council on Alcohol and Drugs – Suicide Prevention, The Opening of Closed Doors Inc., Rockdale Stepping Up Initiative, Issa Funnel, Antony’s Italian Ice, Jamaican Treasure Jerk, Que’n Wit Q, Big Al’s BBQ, Blockers Soul Food, 10.Oh! Candy Apples and Treats, AccuGen Diagnostics LLC, Aide’s Boutique Artesanal, Audrey’s Eatz, Authentic Soul Healing LLC, Author Mai B / Author Anaya B, Bundle Up Bookstore, Buttercups Shop, Chance, Coop’s Candy Creations,
Covington Family Chiropractic, Cre@tive Cre@tions, Cruise Planners, Delightful Divine Catering, Delivered Ministries, Divine Lovely, Emonie’s Closet, Emporio MG, Georgia Access Marketplace, Ghoulish Treasures, Give Me Hope & Meesa Love’s Chocolates, GNR Public Health, Hey Girly Hair LLC, I Like That Jewelry, Island Breeze Spices, JMJ Inspires, K Klean, K. Collier Jewelry Designs LLC, KB Designs, Little Legacy Heroes, Mae’s Mystics Crystal Shop, Mary Ross Inc., Mary Kay, Me and Mine Collections, Mrs. T’s Homemade Desserts, Navy Federal, NinaCakes, One Stop Shop / Wrist Pop by Marley G, Evyn’s Cookie and Candy Co. Treats, PaperPie, Peach Treatzz LLC, Piedmont Newton Hospital, Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta, Protect Your Ground Personal Safety Products, PunkinsPerfection, Rolyat Candle and Soap Co.’s Sand Art, Safe Haven Journals LLC, Sahara Cloud Beads & More, Selah Rising LLC, Sfrei Photography, Smith Creation Station, Southern Cut Designs, Stephanie’s Sassy Caps, Sunflower Sews, Sunniva Collection, Sweet Things Georgia, Tanger Educational Services, Taste & See Fresh, That’s Nice Fashion Boutique, Trendy, Tropical Delights / Little Jimmy’s Italian Ice, Creative Signatures and Accessories, Unstoppable Fitness & Tumbling, World of Love Homecare, Young Atlanta Corporation, Zackery Creative Designs, Zest Café and Shelby’s Helping With Hot Wheels. Looking ahead, Sheriff Brown and the NCSO are committed to continuing this community-wide collaboration and thank everyone who helped make this year’s Faith and Blue Weekend a success.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE JOINS GEORGIA GOHS FOR CHILD CAR SEAT SAFETY On Oct. 8, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Traffic and Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) Units joined the Georgia GOHS for a child car seat safety check at the Salem Road Walmart. The event provided parents and caregivers with free car seat inspections and hands-on guidance from certified technicians to ensure their seats were properly installed. These events play an important role in keeping Georgia’s youngest passengers safe on the road by helping families meet state safety standards and prevent injuries in the event of a crash.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE CONNECTS WITH COMMUNITY AT FALL FESTIVAL
On Oct. 11, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in the Fall Festival at Denny Dobbs Park, hosted by Creative Touch Counseling Center, LLC. The festival was filled with pumpkins, games, and neighborly fun. Families and friends came together to celebrate the season, creating a lively and welcoming community atmosphere. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO are grateful for the opportunity to take part in such a joyful event and connect with the community it serves. Events like these highlight the importance of coming together and building strong community ties.
NCSO SUPPORTS THE FIGHT FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
On Oct. 11–12, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in several local events in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The unit joined Pack-the-Park Pink at Springhill Park and the Bethlehem Baptist Church Breast Cancer Walk on Saturday, Oct. 11, followed by the Breast Cancer Festival at Kingdom Konnection Ministries on Sunday, Oct. 12. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO are grateful to be part of a community that comes together to raise awareness, celebrate survivors and honor those affected by breast cancer.
INTEGRATED RESPONSE DRILL PREPARES COUNTY FOR CRISES On Oct. 14, Emergency responders and school staff came together at Eastside High School for an integrated response drill aimed at strengthening coordination and communication during emergency situations. The training allowed participants to practice real-world scenarios in a controlled, safe environment to ensure the highest level of preparedness and community safety. Sheriff Ezell Brown extended his gratitude to all who participated, including the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Fire Department, Covington Police Department, Covington Fire Department, Newton County Emergency Management Agency, Newton County School Police, Covington-Newton County 911 Center, Board of Education employees, Central EMS, Air Methods Base Chief Jaron Queen, and volunteers from the school system and community.
NCSO JOINS EFFORT TO EMPOWER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS
On Oct. 16, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in “Purple Day,” hosted by Project ReNeWal Domestic Violence Intervention Program, Inc. The event brought the community together to support survivors of domestic violence through donations and volunteer efforts. Participants’ generosity helped foster safety, hope and renewal for those in need, making a meaningful impact in the lives of many.
CENTRAL EMS DONATES MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO THE NCSO
On Oct. 21, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office received a generous medical supply donation from Central EMS. The agency expressed gratitude for Central EMS’s continued partnership and support in helping deputies better serve and protect the Newton County community. The deputies who received the medical bags successfully completed a 40-hour Georgia P.O.S.T.-approved First Responder Course, taught by NCSO and Central EMS instructors with assistance from the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Law Enforcement Academy.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE SUPPORTS COMMUNITY AT ANNUAL PINK WALK
On Oct. 22, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined together with Newton County Ga Government to walk Covington Square for the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Walk, an event to raise awareness for breast cancer and honor those whose lives have been affected by the disease. A special thank you to the Newton County Human Resources team for organizing this meaningful event for county employees.
H.E.A.T. AND CRTEN JOIN LOCAL TRUNK-OR-TREAT CELEBRATION
On Oct. 24, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) Unit and the Central Region Traffic Enforcement Network (CRTEN) participated in a trunk-or-treat event hosted by UMAS Karate. Deputies had the opportunity to connect with families and spreading Halloween cheer in a safe, festive environment.
DEPUTIES CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY AT BETHLEHEM BAPTIST On Oct. 25, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in Bethlehem Baptist Church’s fall festival, enjoying the opportunity to connect with the local community. Events like this allow deputies to strengthen relationships, answer questions and show appreciation for the support received from the people they serve.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PARTICIPATES IN CHANGE THE WORLD DAY
On Oct. 25, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit participated in the annual Change The World Day at Covington First United Methodist Church. This event offered an opportunity to connect with the community, share valuable resources and highlight the meaningful work being done every day by the Sheriff’s Office. Change The World Day brings together local organizations, volunteers and residents to make a positive impact in the community. The Sheriff’s Office was honored to join in these efforts, reinforcing its commitment to service, outreach and building strong community relationships.
NEWTON COUNTY MARKS A DECADE OF THE MIRACLE LEAGUE
On Oct. 25, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit joined the community at City Pond Park for the 10th Anniversary Celebration of The Miracle League of Newton County. It was a joyous occasion, bringing together the players, families and supporters who make The Miracle League such a special part of the Newton County community. The celebration highlighted a decade of inclusion, teamwork and the inspiring achievements of all involved in this program.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE ASSISTS WITH ANNUAL BREAST CANCER 5K
On Oct. 25, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit supported the annual Breast Cancer Awareness 5K Walk at Creekview Heights on Kirkland Road in Covington. Deputies helped with traffic control and cheered on participants as they raised awareness and supported local families affected by breast cancer.
NCSO ATTENDS GREATER DELIVERANCE WORSHIP CENTER FESTIVAL
On Oct. 25, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit attended the fall festival hosted by Deliverance Worship Center. Deputies took the opportunity to engage with community members, share safety information and enjoy a day filled with fellowship and fun. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office thank Deliverance Worship Center for hosting the event and looks forward to future opportunities to serve and connect with the community.
NCSO JOINS ANNUAL HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION AT LEGION FIELD
On Oct. 31, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined the community for the annual Trick or Treat on Legion Field, hosted by the Covington Family YMCA in partnership with the City of Covington and Discover Covington. Families enjoyed wandering through candy stations, racing down the bouncy slide, and visiting public safety vehicles, including those from the Sheriff’s Office, where deputies connected with kids and shared safety tips. The event also featured local food trucks, music and the ever-popular Zombie Zumba, creating a festive atmosphere for all ages.
NCSO FAMILIES SHOW OFF SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN COSTUMES
Halloween for the Newton County Sheriff’s Office families wasn’t just about patrols and pumpkin carving; it was about family, fun and a whole lot of creativity. We’re so grateful for the families who make NCSO more than just a workplace; you make it a community. Your creativity, joy and togetherness remind us that even in the busiest seasons, there’s always room for fun.
CPL. PATRICK GILBERT NAMED GOHS COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR
Cpl. Patrick Gilbert was honored as Coordinator of the Year at the 2025 Georgia GOHS Governor’s Challenge, held on Oct. 31 in Macon. As the coordinator for the Central Region Traffic Enforcement Network (CRTEN), which covers nine counties, including Baldwin, Jones, Jasper, Putnam, Greene, Morgan, Newton, Rockdale and Walton, Cpl. Gilbert’s leadership, dedication and commitment to traffic safety have made a lasting impact across both the Central Region and the state of Georgia.
NCSO EARNS 2ND PLACE IN 2025 GA GOHS GOVERNOR’S CHALLENGE
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office are proud to announce that the agency earned second place in Category 6 (101–200 officers) during the 2025 Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) Governor’s Challenge, held Oct. 31 in Macon, Georgia. The annual Governor’s Challenge recognizes law enforcement agencies across the state for their outstanding efforts in promoting highway safety and reducing crashes, injuries and fatalities on Georgia’s roadways. Agencies were evaluated on seven key areas for a total of 205 possible points: policy, training, incentives and recognition, public information and education, enforcement, effectiveness and quality of application. “This recognition reflects our team’s continued commitment to protecting lives and promoting safety on our roadways,” Sheriff Brown said. “I’m incredibly proud of the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office whose dedication, professionalism and hard work continue to make our community and our highways safer for everyone.”
This achievement reflects the Sheriff’s Office’s continued leadership in traffic safety initiatives, community outreach and evidence-based enforcement strategies that contribute to saving lives throughout Newton County and beyond.
NCSO CONDUCTS 19TH ANNUAL SEX OFFENDER COMPLIANCE
On Oct. 31, 2025, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Department of Community Supervision, conducted the 19th annual Sex Offender Compliance Check for registered sex offenders residing in Newton County. Investigator Veronica Williams, along with probation and parole officers, led the annual operation to ensure high-risk sex offenders were properly supervised while families participated in Halloween festivities. The Sheriff’s Office launched the compliance check program in 2006 to promote public safety and accountability. Newton County currently has 330 registered sex offenders, ranging from low to high risk. Of those, 120 high-risk offenders were targeted during this year’s compliance operation. Four arrests were made during the event. A current list of registered sex offenders in Newton County is available on the Sheriff’s Office’s website at www.newtonsheriffga.org.
WELCOME Newly Hired Employees
Corey Nevis Detention Officer
Telly Smith Detention Officer
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcome you!
COMMITMENT loyalty
sacrifice dedication
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