A MOMENT WITH SEPTEMBER: A SEASON OF SERVICE, REFLECTION AND RENEWAL
Each season carries its own message, and each month gives us fresh opportunities to reflect and act as a community. September, in particular, stood as a month of great meaning—one that challenged us to remember our past, honor our present and prepare for our future.
The month of September began with Labor Day, a holiday that pays tribute to the working men and women of America. This day reminded us that our communities are built by the hands, the sweat and the dedication of everyday people. Newton County’s strength comes from farmers, teachers, business owners, healthcare workers, custodians and deputies who contribute every day.
I want to take a moment to recognize the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office who work faithfully, often in unseen ways, to help keep our community safe. Your courage, long hours and sacrifices, especially on holidays, weekends and nights, do not go unnoticed.
But beyond our Sheriff’s Office, Labor Day was a reminder to all of us that our county thrives because of the contributions of every citizen. Together, our labor builds not just an economy, but a community worth calling home.
Perhaps no date in September, or in modern history, was more solemn than Sept. 11, 2001. This year marks 24 years since that tragic morning when our nation was shaken by terror but strengthened by unity. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were lost, yet from the ashes arose stories of unmatched bravery and resilience.
For us in law enforcement, 9/11 carries a profound weight. It reminds us of the courage of first responders—firefighters, police officers, paramedics—who rushed into danger when others fled. It reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared, vigilant and united.
In Newton County, we continue to honor the memory of those who were lost. We honor the families who still carry the pain of absence. And we honor the men and women in uniform who continue to stand guard, both here at home and around the world.
It is important to remember that a strengthened sense of unity often emerges in the aftermath of adversity. That same unity must continue today, not only in moments of national crisis but in our daily lives as neighbors and citizens of Newton County.
On Sept. 12, we proudly celebrated National Police Women’s Day, honoring the women who serve in law enforcement with courage, dedication and heart. In Newton County, our women deputies exemplify strength, integrity and leadership, protecting our community while inspiring future generations. Their commitment to safety, fairness and service strengthens the trust between law enforcement and the public, reminding us all that bravery and compassion walk hand in hand.
On Sept. 15, we began the observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich culture, history and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Here in Newton County, our Hispanic community is a vibrant part of our fabric, contributing to business, education, faith, service and culture.
Diversity makes us stronger, and heritage is something to be celebrated. When we embrace the richness of every culture, we enrich our entire community.
On Sept. 17, 1787, the U.S. Constitution was signed in Philadelphia, establishing the framework of government that still guides us today. Each year, we recognize Constitution Day as a reminder of the freedoms and responsibilities that come with living in this great nation.
As Sheriff, I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. That oath is not just a formality—it is the foundation
SHERIFF BROWN
of everything we do at the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Our duty is to serve and protect all people fairly, with justice and integrity, under the principles of law that bind us as Americans.
I encourage every citizen to reflect on the blessings of liberty. Freedom is not free; it is preserved by vigilance, sacrifice and respect for one another. Let us commit ourselves to protecting the rights of all, treating each person with dignity and living as productive members of this great nation.
In September, students, teachers and parents settled back into the rhythm of school. This was a time of new beginnings—new classes, new friendships and new opportunities.
To our students: we believe in you. You are the future of Newton County, and your education is the key to unlocking your potential. Work hard, stay focused and know that your community is rooting for you.
To our teachers: you are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Your work is a labor of love, and we are grateful for your commitment to excellence.
To parents and guardians: your support, encouragement and involvement are essential. Thank you for partnering with schools and with law enforcement to ensure our young people have safe environments in which to grow.
As your Sheriff, I reaffirm our commitment to school safety. Our School Resource Officers and staff are working tirelessly to ensure our schools remain secure places of learning. The safety of our children is our top priority, and it is a responsibility we carry with the greatest
care.
Finally, September marked the transition from summer to fall. The changing seasons remind us of life’s cycles, of reflection, letting go of the old and preparing for the new. Just as the leaves continue to turn and the air begins to cool, so too are we invited to embrace growth, change and renewal in our personal and community lives.
As we head into the month of October, let us reflect. Let us ask: How can I contribute to my community? How can I serve my neighbor better? How can I leave Newton County stronger than I found it?
September was not simply another month on the calendar — it was a season rich with meaning. It called us to honor the labor of our people, to remember those we have lost, to cherish our freedoms, to celebrate our diversity, to invest in our youth and to prepare for the changes ahead.
As your Sheriff, I am proud of this community. I am proud of the resilience, the strength and the compassion that define Newton County. Together, we are more than citizens — we are a family, and families look out for one another.
As a new month begins, let us be great, not through words alone, but through our actions of service, unity and care for one another.
Sheriff Ezell Brown
Newton County, GA
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.
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SHERIFF BROWN ANNOUNCES THE AGENCY’S NEWEST
This month, Sheriff Ezell Brown announced the promotion of Joshua Hicks, Tim Smith, Chardelle McFarlin and Trevor Dunston to the rank of Corporal.
These well-deserved promotions are a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and continued commitment Corporals Hicks, Smith, McFarlin and Dunston have shown to the Newton County community. Their leadership, professionalism and integrity continue to set an example for their peers and serve as an inspiration to those around them.
Congratulations to each of them on reaching this exciting new chapter in their careers!
NCSO SELECTED FOR NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CORRECTIONS VISIT
The Newton County Sheriff’s Office was selected by the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) as one of only four agencies in Georgia to host a site visit during a four-day tour Sept. 8-11, 2025.
Michael Nail, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, welcomed NIC Deputy Director Holly Busby and Acting Director Rachel Thompson to Georgia. The visit was part of a statewide initiative to introduce Thompson to stakeholders, provide insight into the work of local agencies and give her a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within corrections and community supervision.
The four host agencies included the Atlanta DCS Field Office, the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, the Georgia Department of Corrections Training Center State Prison and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Out of 156 sheriff’s offices in the state, NCSO was the only one selected for a site visit, a distinction that highlights the agency’s leadership and continued commitment to excellence.
During the opening session at NCSO, Busby noted she had heard the Newton County Sheriff’s Office is among the best in the state. Over the course of the visit, NIC leaders and NCSO representatives discussed Georgia’s innovations in community supervision, incarceration and staff wellness, as well as the state’s approach to risk assessment, recruitment and retention, technology and training. The discussions also explored opportunities to strengthen reentry programs, expand programming for incarcerated individuals and enhance task force collaboration at the local, state and federal levels.
On Sept. 11, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office held a remembrance gathering to honor the lives lost during the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Among those who provided remarks were Sheriff Brown, Interim Chair Linda Hays and NCSO Workforce Development Program Coordinator Tongela Smith.
SHERIFF JOINS GEORGIA RECOVERS BUS TOUR IN NEWTON COUNTY
On Sept. 11, Sheriff Ezell Brown attended the Georgia Recovers Bus Tour event, hosted by Join Heart of Newton in partnership with the Georgia Council for Recovery and the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. The tour made a stop at the Newton County Courthouse, where community members gathered to witness the City of Covington and Newton County Government officially proclaim September as National Recovery Month.
NCSO HOSTS FBI-LEEDA SUPERVISOR LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE COURSE
From Sept. 15-19, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted a fourand-a-half-day FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Supervisor Leadership Institute course. Participants developed skills in supervisory leadership, credibility and authenticity, law enforcement liability, police discipline, DISC behavior and leadership, and guiding multiple generations.
NCSO HOSTS FBI-LEEDA SUPERVISOR LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
On Sept. 19, Lt. Mandy Peters and Deputy Jason Miles were recognized for completing the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Trilogy Leadership Program!
The advanced program consists of three intensive courses: the Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute and Executive Leadership Institute. Together, they provide law enforcement supervisors with training on leadership case studies, performance and risk management, command discipline and liability, bias and diversity, social and emotional intelligence, and public trust.
NCSO HONORS AND REMEMBERS RETIRED SHERIFF GERALD MALCOM
On Sept. 13, Sheriff Ezell Brown informed the Newton County community of the passing of retired Sheriff Gerald D. Malcom, who left behind a legacy of service and dedication that will not be forgotten.
Retired Sheriff Malcom joined the Newton County Sheriff’s Office through appointment as Sheriff in 1975 and was then elected in 1976. He served the community with distinction for 21 years. During his time with the NCSO, Sheriff Malcom was recognized for many accomplishments. He was a valued member of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and the community at large and was known as a mentor to many.
On Sept. 17, Sheriff Malcom was laid to rest in Covington following a service at Stewart Community Church. His funeral procession was led by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and the Henry County Police Department.
Sheriff Brown and the NCSO continue to stand beside the family and loved ones of Sheriff Malcom, in grief and in gratitude.
NCSO, LIONS CLUB PARTNER FOR STUDENT VISION SCREENINGS
On Sept. 17, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit partnered with the Covington Lions Club at Porterdale Elementary School to provide free vision screenings for students.
The initiative aimed to identify potential vision issues early, helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the NCSO remain committed to supporting programs that promote the health, well-being and academic success of local youth.
SHERIFF SWEARS IN FLINT HILL ELEMENTARY SAFETY PATROL
On Sept. 23, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Unit attended the 2nd Annual Safety Patrol Induction Ceremony at Flint Hill Elementary School.
Sheriff Brown served as the guest speaker and had the honor of swearing in the 2025–2026 Safety Patrol, a group of 4th and 5th grade students committed to keeping their campus safe and welcoming. During the ceremony, these students took the Safety Patrol Oath, received their belts and badges, and were recognized for their leadership and service.
SHERIFF SWEARS IN NEWLY HIRED DEPUTY SHERIFF
On Sept. 26, Sheriff Ezell Brown administered the oath of office to Deputy Sheriff Brandon Franklin, welcoming him as the newest member of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.
Franklin completed a rigorous selection process and training program, preparing him to serve and protect the Newton County community.
Photo Credit: Newton County School System
NCSO GRADUATES AGENCY’S FIRST-EVER BASIC SWAT TRAINING CLASS
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated 21 law enforcement officers from the agency’s first-ever Basic SWAT Training Course, held Sept. 22-26.
This intensive 50-hour course marks a significant milestone for the agency, offering hands-on instruction in advanced tactical skills. Officers were trained in a wide range of specialized techniques, including SWAT operator equipment and firearms proficiency, building-clearing techniques, hostage rescue tactics, use of less-lethal tools, flashbang diversionary devices, breaching methods, vehicle assaults and operational planning.
Designed to enhance readiness for high-risk situations, the training focused on sharpening individual skills, building cohesive teamwork and improving strategic planning under pressure.
Participating agencies in the course included the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Milledgeville Police Department, Monroe Police Department, Newton County Fire Services, Forest Park Police Department, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and Conyers Police Department.
“I am incredibly proud of these officers for completing such a rigorous and demanding course,” said Sheriff Brown. “Their commitment to professional growth and operational excellence reflects the core values of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. The skills and knowledge they have gained through this training will undoubtedly strengthen the safety and security of the communities they protect. I was proud to speak with them, reflecting on the fact that I spent more than 22 years as a SWAT officer. I encouraged them to take the training and skills they’ve gained, build on what they’ve learned, and become tacticians in the field.”
He added, “Additionally, I want to acknowledge the instructors, whose dedication and expertise made this training possible.”
Sheriff Brown and the NCSO extend congratulations to all graduates and commend them for their dedication to advancing their capabilities in service to public safety.
WELCOME Newly Hired Employees
Brandon Franklin Deputy Sheriff
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcome you!
