NCSO September 2026 newsletter
JANUARY 20
A MOMENT WITH THE STRENGTH OF NEWTON COUNTY STARTS WITH ITS PEOPLE
September has always been a time of reflection for me. As summer gives way to fall and our community settles into another school year, it reminds us that time continues to move forward. It is also a good time to pause and think about where we have been and where we are going. When I think about Newton County, one question continues to come to mind: How are we moving forward together? As your Sheriff, I believe the answer begins with people. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is here to serve the people who call this community home. Behind every call for service, investigation and interaction with a deputy is a person with a life, a family and a story. That human element should never be forgotten. Our responsibility is not only to enforce the law. It is also to ensure the people we encounter are treated with dignity and respect. There will be difficult situations and difficult decisions, but professionalism and compassion should remain part of how we serve. That belief extends beyond the Sheriff’s Office. A safe and strong community is something we build together. One of the things I appreciate most about this time of year is seeing our children begin another school year. For students, a new school year can represent a fresh start. Some walk through the doors excited about what is ahead, while others may be nervous or unsure of what the year will bring. Whatever they may be feeling, they deserve to know that the adults around them believe in them. That is why prevention and early intervention matter. We cannot wait until a young person is already struggling before we decide that child needs our attention. We have to be willing to talk with our children, listen to them and be present in their lives before a crisis occurs. Sometimes a simple conversation can have a lasting impact. A deputy speaking with a student in a school hallway may seem like an ordinary moment, but we do not always know what a child is experiencing. That conversation could be the first positive
interaction that student has had with a law enforcement officer. It could help build trust or give a young person an opportunity to talk with someone who is willing to listen. We may never know the full impact of those moments. That does not make them any less important. I encourage parents, grandparents, guardians and caregivers to remain connected to the young people in their lives. Ask your children about their day. Know who their friends are. Pay attention to what they are experiencing online. Notice when something seems different. Most importantly, listen. A child may not always come to an adult and say something is wrong. Sometimes the signs are much quieter. Maybe they become withdrawn, their behavior changes or they stop talking about things they once enjoyed. Taking the time to ask, “How are you really doing?” can open a door. Our children need boundaries and accountability, but they also need encouragement. They need adults who will correct them when necessary while reminding them that one mistake does not have to determine the rest of their lives. Every child needs someone who believes in them There are challenges facing our community that law enforcement cannot address alone. That is why our relationships with families, schools, churches, businesses, nonprofit organizations and residents are so important. To the faith leaders and congregations throughout Newton County, thank you for the work you continue to do in our community. Much of that work happens quietly. You are there for families during difficult times, support people who are hurting and provide encouragement to those who may feel forgotten. The role of faith communities cannot be replaced by law enforcement, just as law enforcement cannot replace the role of families or mentors. We need one another. When people have opportunities to know and understand one another, trust has a chance to grow. That trust strengthens our community and helps create an environment where people
SHERIFF BROWN are more willing to ask for help, look out for their neighbors and work together to address problems. That is what community is about. I also want to recognize the businesses that are part of Newton County. The people who own, manage and work in our local businesses contribute far more than their work each day. Many support our schools, youth programs and community events. Others step forward when families or organizations need assistance. Your investment in Newton County matters. A strong community cannot be built by government alone. It requires people who are willing to invest their time and resources into the place they call home. Public safety works the same way. Law enforcement has an important responsibility, but keeping our community safe is something we all have a part in. When residents stay aware of what is happening around them, look out for their neighbors and report concerns, they help us do our job. I also want to take a moment to speak directly to the men and women of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. I see the sacrifices you make to serve this community. I see the missed birthdays and holidays, the family dinners interrupted by a call, the difficult scenes and the long hours. I see the work that often happens when no one is watching. I see the training, reports, investigations and court appearances. I see the communications professionals who answer when someone calls because they do not know where else to turn. I see the detention officers who carry out an extremely demanding responsibility and the investigators who continue working long after public attention
Sheriff Ezell Brown
Newton County, GA
has moved elsewhere. I also see the families who stand behind our employees and make sacrifices of their own. To every member of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office and every family supporting them: thank you What you do matters. The public may see the uniform first, but behind every uniform is a person who has chosen to serve. I want every member of this agency to remember that the way we treat people matters just as much as the work we accomplish. We can enforce the law while treating people with dignity. We can hold people accountable while recognizing that people can change. We can exercise authority while remaining respectful. That is the kind of service I expect from this Sheriff’s Office. As we move from September into another season, I hope we remember that the strength of Newton County does not belong to one person or one organization. It belongs to all of us. As your Sheriff, I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve Newton County. I do not take this responsibility lightly, and I never want to become so accustomed to this position that I forget what an honor it is to serve the people of this community. Newton County is more than a place on a map. It is home. May God bless you, your families and Newton County.
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
NCSO GRADUATES 14 OFFICERS FROM ADVANCED SWAT TRAINING CLASS
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated 14 law enforcement officers from the agency’s SWAT Level II training course, held Aug. 31-Sept. 4, 2026. This intensive 50-hour course marks an advanced milestone in tactical training, delivering hands-on, high-intensity instruction designed to sharpen real-world response and strengthen team coordination under pressure. The SWAT Level II program builds upon foundational skills, focusing on leadership, decision-making and complex operational execution in high-risk environments. During the course, officers received specialized training in SWAT leadership and liabilities; roles, responsibilities and operations; advanced rifle training; tactical blast strip breaching; rifle-based building clearing techniques; robotics and drone integration; and BearCat armored vehicle operations. Additional instruction reinforced tactical planning, communication and coordinated team movements during critical incidents. Designed to enhance readiness for dynamic and potentially life-threatening situations, the course emphasized both individual performance and cohesive unit function, ensuring officers are prepared to respond effectively in rapidly evolving scenarios. Participating agencies included the Newton County Sher-
iff’s Office, Duluth Police Department, Lilburn Police Department, Milledgeville Police Department, Department of Juvenile Justice and Newton County School System Police Department. “This achievement represents more than completing a course; it reflects a deep commitment to serving our community at the highest level,” said Sheriff Brown. “These officers have dedicated countless hours to strengthening the tactical abilities, leadership and teamwork necessary to respond to high-risk situations. That level of preparation plays an important role in protecting the communities we serve. After spending 22 years as a SWAT officer, I reminded them that training is never something you simply finish. It is a continuous process of learning, improving and staying prepared throughout your career.” He added, “I also want to recognize the instructors who have dedicated their time and expertise to these courses. Their leadership has been essential to the continued success of the basic and advanced SWAT training programs hosted by our agency throughout the year.” Sheriff Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office extend congratulations to all graduates and commend them for their continued dedication to advancing their capabilities in service to public safety.
SHERIFF BROWN JOINS FIFTH THIRD BANK FOR TWO RIBBON CUTTINGS Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office were honored to join the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and community leaders this month for ribbon-cutting celebrations marking the opening of two Fifth Third Bank locations in Newton County. Sheriff Brown and members of the NCSO attended ribbon-cutting events for Fifth Third Bank’s new locations on Salem Road and Town Center Drive, helping officially welcome the bank to both locations and celebrate its continued presence in the Newton County community. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is proud to support local businesses as they grow and invest in our community. Sheriff Brown looks forward to continuing to build strong relationships with local businesses and organizations throughout Newton County.
A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND APPRECIATION AT COVINGTON ACADEMY On Sept. 11, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined Covington Academy for a First Responders Appreciation event recognizing those who serve and protect the community. The event also provided an opportunity to remember Sept. 11, 2001, and honor the first responders and civilians who demonstrated courage during one of the most tragic days in our nation’s history. Sheriff Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office are grateful to Covington Academy for inviting them to be part of this meaningful event and for helping keep the memory and sacrifices of 9/11 alive for future generations.
NCSO ATTENDS NEWTON HIGH SCHOOL’S FIRST HOME GAME
On Sept. 11, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office were proudly in attendance at Newton High School’s first official home game in their new stadium. Also, it was Newton High’s homecoming game. Sheriff Brown is standing next to former NFL wide receiver Jake Reed (white shirt), who is an alumnus of Newton High School.
Photo Credit: Newton County School System
NCSO JOINS SOUTH SALEM ELEMENTARY FOR 9/11 REMEMBRANCE Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined South Salem Elementary School for its 9/11 Remembrance event. Sheriff Brown and members of the NCSO gathered with students and staff to remember Sept. 11, 2001, and reflect on the courage and sacrifice demonstrated by first responders and citizens during that tragic day. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is grateful to South Salem Elementary for inviting the agency to participate and for creating an opportunity for students to learn about the significance of 9/11 and the importance of remembrance.
SHERIFF BROWN ANNOUNCES TWO SEPTEMBER PROMOTIONS
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office announced two promotions in September. Deputy Marco Gibson (right) was promoted to corporal, while Cpl. Delarion Walls (left) was promoted to sergeant. The promotions recognize the hard work and dedication each member has demonstrated throughout their careers with the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Brown and the NCSO congratulate Cpl. Gibson and Sgt. Walls on their new roles and look forward to their continued service to the agency and the community.
NCSO JOINS IN ON MAMIE GREEN’S 95TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION On Sept. 20, Sheriff Ezell Brown and members of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office joined Ms. Mamie Green to celebrate her 95th birthday. The celebration marked a special milestone and gave the Sheriff’s Office an opportunity to join her family and friends in recognizing the occasion.
NCSO CHAPLAINS JOIN SALVATION ARMY OF COVINGTON FOR LUNCHEON On Sept. 24, Sheriff Ezell Brown and members of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain team joined The Salvation Army of Covington for a luncheon. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the opportunity to partner with organizations like The Salvation Army of Covington and is grateful for its continued efforts to serve the community.
NCSO PARTICIPATES IN GEORGIA RECOVERS IN COMMUNITIES EVENT Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office participated in this year’s Georgia Recovers in Communities event hosted by Heart of Newton RCO. The event brought together community members, local organizations and resources to celebrate recovery and highlight the support available throughout Newton County. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office was proud to join Heart of Newton RCO and other community partners in supporting recovery efforts.
NCSO GRADUATES NINE DETENTION OFFICERS FROM BASIC JAIL ACADEMY
On Sept. 25, 2026, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated nine detention officers from the agency’s 80-hour Basic Jail Academy. The academy, held Sept. 14-25, provided detention officers with foundational training necessary to perform standard jail operations while conducting themselves in accordance with legislative requirements and applicable case law. The next Basic Jail Academy is scheduled for Dec. 7-18, 2026, and will be open to officers from other agencies. During the program, officers completed coursework and practical training in key areas, including emergency procedures, inmate rights, inmate discipline, inmate and cell searches, fingerprinting, inmate supervision and self-defense. The curriculum also covered medical response activities, including first aid and CPR. Portions of the academy included physical activity and exercises designed to strengthen written communication skills, both of which are critical components of daily detention operations. “This academy represents our continued commitment to
ensuring that detention officers are properly trained and prepared to meet the responsibilities of the job,” said Sheriff Brown. “We are proud to be one of only 13 sheriff’s offices in Georgia offering this program. By delivering this high level of instruction, we enhance the professionalism of our detention operations and support agencies across the region in equipping their officers with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain safe and secure facilities.” The Newton County Sheriff’s Office Basic Jail Academy was approved by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST) on Dec. 9, 2025, allowing the program to award official training credit to Georgia peace officers. On the same date, Lt. Mandy Peters was appointed academy director and oversees the development and implementation of the program. Cpl. Jeff Alexander serves as class coordinator, assisting with the planning and day-to-day operations of the academy. For more information about the Basic Jail Academy, contact Lt. Mandy Peters at mpeters@newtonsheriffga.org.
WELCOME Newly Hired Employees Quantori Newby Deputy Sheriff, Recruit
Princess Reed Detention Officer
Samanta Sanchez Detention Officer
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcome you to the team!
COMMITMENT loyalty
sacrifice dedication
www.newtonsheriffga.org www.newtonsheriffga.org