Issuu

2025

ANNUAL REPORT

Roland Castro, Chief of Police

Table of Contents Message from the Chief........................................................................................................................................................1 History of the Woodstock Police Department......................................................................................................................2 The Woodstock Way.............................................................................................................................................................3 Command Staff....................................................................................................................................................................4 Organizational Chart............................................................................................................................................................5 Accreditation and Certification...........................................................................................................................................6 Operational Metrics.............................................................................................................................................................7 Support Services.................................................................................................................................................................8 Recruitment.........................................................................................................................................................................9 Special Operations.............................................................................................................................................................10 Downtown Officers..............................................................................................................................................................11 Community Outreach..........................................................................................................................................................12 H.E.A.T. Unit.......................................................................................................................................................................14 Traffic Unit.........................................................................................................................................................................15 Criminal Investigations Division.........................................................................................................................................16 Training..............................................................................................................................................................................18 Technical Services..............................................................................................................................................................19 Field Operations................................................................................................................................................................20 Uniformed Patrol................................................................................................................................................................21 Canine Unit........................................................................................................................................................................22 Awards...............................................................................................................................................................................23 End of Watch......................................................................................................................................................................24

Page 1

FROM THE DESK OF CHIEF ROLAND CASTRO

Chief Roland Castro started his law enforcement career in 1997 with the Alpharetta Police Department. He served in Uniform Patrol, Traffic Enforcement, and Criminal Investigations. He was also assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Task Force Officer. In 2004, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He was a member of the Alpharetta SWAT Team from 1998 to 2008, serving as an operator, a team leader, and finally Team Commander. Chief Castro was an inaugural member of the Johns Creek Police Department. During his tenure, he has served as Lieutenant over the Uniform Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, and the Special Operations Unit. He was promoted to Captain in 2019 and was assigned to the Office of the Chief handling internal affairs and recruitment. In March of 2020, he became Major of the Operations Division which oversees Uniform Patrol, SWAT, and the Special Operations Unit. From June 2020 until June 2021, Chief Castro served as the Interim Chief of Police for the Johns Creek Police Department. In June 2021, Chief Castro moved to the Support Services Division, which oversees the Criminal Investigations Division, the Training Division, the Administrative Unit, the Records/GCIC Division, the Evidence and Property function, the Court and Council security function, and was the department’s liaison for the Johns Creek and Forsyth County (JCAF) Drug Task Force.

Chief Castro earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Kennesaw State University and a Master of Public Administration from Columbus State University. Chief Castro is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, PERF’s Senior Management Institute for Police, Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange program, the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College, Georgia Chief Executive Training Class, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar, and the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association Trilogy Award. He also holds a Georgia P.O.S.T. Executive Certificate. Throughout his career, he has earned numerous awards and commendations, including Officer of the Year in 2004 and the Johns Creek Leadership Award in 2010.

As the Chief of Police, I am proud to present the 2025 Annual Report for the Woodstock Police Department. This report reflects far more than statistics and accomplishments. It represents the dedication, resilience, and heart of the men and women who serve this community every day. Our department remains unwavering in its mission to provide professional, responsive, and community-centered policing that enhances the quality of life for all who call Woodstock home. Throughout 2025, we continued to advance public safety through proactive policing, meaningful community partnerships, and a strong commitment to training, development, and innovation. In a fast-growing and dynamic city like Woodstock, trust is not just valuable. It is essential. We remain dedicated to earning that trust through transparency, accountability, and genuine engagement with the people we serve. Our officers face challenges that are more complex than ever, yet they meet them with compassion, courage, and an unwavering sense of purpose. Whether preventing crime, calming conflict, or helping someone through their most difficult moment, the men and women of the Woodstock Police Department work tirelessly to make our city safer, stronger, and more connected. We also recognize that our greatest strength lies in our partnership with the community. The collaboration we share with residents, businesses, civic groups, and local organizations fuels our progress and reinforces what makes Woodstock truly special. Together, we are building a city where people feel seen, heard, and supported, a city where safety and community pride go hand in hand. As we look ahead, we do so with optimism. We are committed to continuing our work with determination and vision, embracing new opportunities, and meeting future challenges with the same spirit that defines this remarkable community. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your partnership. It is an honor to serve the City of Woodstock, and we look forward to working side by side with our community as we build an even safer and more vibrant future for all.

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HISTORY OF WOODSTOCK POLICE DEPARTMENT The story of the Woodstock Police Department begins simply, rooted in a close-knit community where one dedicated individual was often all it took to keep the peace. In the 1950s and 1960s, public safety in Woodstock was the responsibility of night watchmen like Lee Waters and Bernice Green, who walked and drove the town’s streets, watched over local businesses, and protected school crossings. Resources were limited, but commitment was not—Waters famously patrolled in the same pickup truck he used during the day to haul cattle. During this period, C.J. Bowles served as Woodstock’s lone police officer, working alongside armed watchmen to maintain order in a growing town. His dedication to Woodstock would later carry him into the role of mayor, underscoring a lifelong devotion to public service. As Woodstock grew, so did its approach to policing. In 1963, the historic Woodstock Train Depot became the home of the police department, sharing space with City Hall and the volunteer fire department. By 1969, James Stone was hired as police chief, serving as the city’s only full-time officer while also fulfilling duties as a firefighter. In 1973, a second officer joined the force, and the department operated with a single patrol car, one radio, and a walkie-talkie. Federal assistance later allowed the department to install a base radio station, improving communication and response. When Chief Stone stepped down in 1979, the department had grown to five officers—a notable milestone—and he returned in 1981 to continue serving the community he helped build. The latter decades of the 20th century brought steady growth and increasing professionalism. Chiefs including Tommy Holbrook, Joe Hames, Bud Vaughn, Bill Thompson, and Jimmy Mercer each played a role in shaping the department as Woodstock continued to evolve. By 1997, the Woodstock Police Department had expanded to 24 full-time officers, a remarkable transformation from its early days of night watchmen and single-officer patrols. Today, the Woodstock Police Department is a modern, community-centered agency that reflects the city it serves—welcoming, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to its residents. Grounded in hometown pride and guided by a commitment to excellence, the department continues to invest in training, technology, and partnerships that strengthen trust and enhance quality of life. From one officer and a borrowed pickup truck to a full-service professional department, the Woodstock Police Department honors its past while confidently serving the city’s vibrant future.

Page 3

THE WOODSTOCK WAY

The organizational culture of the Woodstock Police Department mirrors the unique character of the city it serves: a bold, collaborative, and authentic metro-Atlanta destination that retains a small-town sense of home for all who visit. Within the organization, the department fosters a family-oriented environment for its 62 sworn officers and 7 civilian employees, ensuring that every team member is known and valued as an individual. While operating within a trendy and rapidly evolving business landscape, the department remains grounded in a philosophy of personal connection and mutual support. This hometown approach is balanced with an unwavering commitment to high-level training and a genuine love for the city and its citizens. Woodstock’s blend of accessibility and respect for all defines the department’s identity, ensuring its team remains approachable to the public and that employees feel seen and heard. Leadership and integrity are emphasized as the responsibility of every employee, regardless of rank, fostering an atmosphere in which feedback is viewed as a gift. “The Woodstock Way” guides the department’s continued growth and enables it to keep pace with the increasing sophistication of the city it serves. Woodstock Police officers take pride in a culture that cultivates trust, respect, and continuous evolution. The Woodstock Police Department holds itself accountable to the highest ethical and moral standards, recognizing public trust as the cornerstone of effective law enforcement. This holistic commitment to safety, ethics, transparency, and community partnership defines the essence of “The Woodstock Way.”

Page 4

COMMAND STAFF The Woodstock Police Department’s Command Staff—consisting of the Assistant Chief, Support Services Captain, and Field Operations Captain—works closely with the Chief of Police to plan, organize, and coordinate both administrative functions and daily operations of the Woodstock Police Department. Their responsibilities include preparing and managing the department budget; overseeing inventory, equipment, and facility needs; and directing scheduling, shift coordination, and personnel assignments. They supervise and evaluate officers and supervisors, administer discipline fairly, and manage internal affairs matters and investigations of employee complaints. The Command Staff develops, conducts, and oversees training programs, ensures certification compliance, and supports hiring, career development, and professional training initiatives. They review complex incidents, respond to major events and emergencies, and conduct special studies, administrative reviews, and assigned investigations. Additionally, they maintain department policies and procedures, identify operational deficiencies, and implement improvements. Command Staff members serve as liaisons with city officials, community groups, courts, and other law enforcement agencies, representing the department at meetings and supporting mutual aid efforts. Through strong leadership, communication, and collaboration, they help ensure high standards of public safety and professional service to the Woodstock community.

Assistant Chief Brian Aligood

Captain

Ronald Sinfelt

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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Chief of Police Roland Castro A STATE CERTIFIED & NATIONALLY ACCREDITED

Accreditation & Compliance

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY

Assistant Chief of Police Brian Aligood

Officer Manager

Chaplain

Field Operations Division Captain Ron Sinfelt

Support Services Division Captain

Support Serices Lt. Ron Hughes

Training

Admin & Training Coordinator

Technical Services Lt. Jeremy Johnson

Investigations

Special Operations

Detectives

Traffic Unit

TAC

HEAT

Records Specialist

Task Force Officer CMANS

Evidence/ Property Crime Analyst

Neighborhood Services

Downtown Officers

Technical Services

Alpha & Charlie Shift Commander Lt. Mike deCocq

Bravo & Delta Sift Commander Lt. Matt O’Keefe

Alpha Shift Sergeant

Charlie Shift Sergeant

Bravo Shift Sergeant

Delta Shift Sergeant

Corporal

Officer

K-9

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Accreditation and Compliance Coordinator

Stephanie Mari

ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION

The Woodstock Police Department has a strong commitment to maintaining high standards of law enforcement and public safety. In 2003, the department first achieved State of Georgia Certification through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, demonstrating its adherence to 108 rigorous standards that align with best practices and are tailored to Georgia's unique laws and procedures. This certification recognizes the implementation of policies and procedures that are both conceptually sound and operationally effective. Building on this foundation, the department earned National Accreditation in 2017 from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This prestigious accreditation program evaluates agencies based on four key areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services, ensuring that the department operates at the highest level of professionalism and effectiveness. Both certifications reflect the department's ongoing dedication to excellence in law enforcement, ensuring it serves the community with integrity, accountability, and the utmost professionalism. The Woodstock Police Department successfully completed its latest four-year CALEA accreditation cycle in November 2025, achieving reaccreditation following an onsite assessment. Throughout the cycle, the Department was commended for its well-established administrative processes, which are consistently used to develop, review, and update policies, procedures, and protocols that meet or exceed both CALEA standards and State certification requirements.

CALEA Accreditation (National): The Woodstock Police Department has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) since 2017. The agency completed its third accreditation cycle and achieved reaccreditation on November 14–15, 2025.

GLECP Certification (State): The department was first certified under the Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program (GLECP) through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police in 2003. The current cycle’s onsite assessment was completed on December 10, 2025, conducted by Lt. Dan Clark (Suwanee Police Department).

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OPERATIONAL METRICS

2024

2025

464............................Investigations

450............................Investigations

1,519.....................................Arrests

1,423.....................................Arrests

30,839....................Calls for Service

34,799....................Calls for Service

1,882......................Vehicle Crashes

1,716......................Vehicle Crashes

1,931............Open Records Request

2,799...........Open Records Request

In 2025, the City of Woodstock is home to 38,799 residents across 12 square miles, supported by a hardworking team of 63 employees who take pride in serving our community each day. With more than three million visitors enjoying Woodstock throughout the year, the Woodstock Police Department stays focused on providing responsive service, whether maintaining our parks and roads, supporting public safety, or collaborating with other city of Woodstock departments. the Woodstock Police Department is committed to keeping our city safe, vibrant, and welcoming.

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SUPPORT SERVICES

Lieutenant Ron Hughes

The Support Services Division is essential to the overall effectiveness of the Woodstock Police Department, providing the foundation that enables officers to serve the community with excellence. This division encompasses several key functions, including Training, Investigations, Special Operations, Technical Services, and dedicated professional staff, all of which play a vital role in advancing both daily operations and the long-term goals of the department. The Support Services Division ensures that critical administrative responsibilities are carried out efficiently and accurately. From processing reports and maintaining records to overseeing regulatory compliance, the division delivers the operational stability officers rely on while in the field. The division also includes the Criminal Investigations Division, which monitors, responds to, and develops proactive operational plans based on actionable intelligence. This approach enables the department to effectively address emerging concerns effectively and deploy resources where they can have the greatest impact. Special Operations further strengthens the department’s connection with the community. With a focus on transparency, education, and open communication, this unit works to build meaningful relationships between residents and the police. Through outreach initiatives, safety education programs, and partnerships with local organizations, Special Operations ensures community voices are valued and community needs are addressed. Through collaboration, dedicated service, and forward-thinking innovation, the Support Services Division enhances the Woodstock Police Department’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Woodstock community.

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RECRUITMENT Applications

331

Background Investigations

Interviews

Civilian 10%

CVSA Hires

Sergeant Dennis Hornes

Lateral Hires 50% Basic Mandate Hires 40%

In 2025, the department received a significant number of applications, reflecting continued interest in serving with the Woodstock Police Department. We processed 177 applications from uncertified candidates and 38 applications from certified officers, demonstrating strong outreach and visibility within the law enforcement community. Of these applicants, 63 individuals submitted full background packets, each undergoing careful review to determine suitability and alignment with our values. From that group, 16 candidates were advanced to full background investigations, a process designed to thoroughly assess integrity, judgment, and overall fitness for service. Ultimately, 9 applicants were hired, exemplifying our commitment to maintaining rigorous hiring standards and ensuring that only those who truly reflect our core values join our organization. By holding firmly to these principles, the Woodstock Police Department continues to build a team of dedicated professionals who not only serve effectively but also strengthen our connection to the community and uphold the trust placed in us by the public.

Service Population

2025 Sworn Male Officers

2025 Sworn Female Officers

2024 Sworn Male Officers

2024 Sworn Female Officers

Caucasian

28,010

70.30%

77.08%

57.14%

80%

60%

African-American

4,385

11.01%

12.50%

14.29%

12%

20%

Hispanic

4,719

11.84%

10.42%

28.57%

20%

Asian/Other

2,728

6.85%

Total

39,842

100%

87.27%

12.73%

90.90%

9.10%

Page 10

SPECIAL OPERATIONS

Sergeant Jeremy Cochran

The Special Operations Group (SOG) is the department's highly specialized tactical and community liaison arm, unifying advanced enforcement with focused public engagement. The Traffic Enforcement and Investigations element is comprised of officers who are both certified DUI investigators and Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), alongside technical experts who serve as Accident Reconstructionist. This cross-trained team is responsible for targeted enforcement (including H.E.A.T. operations), complex investigations into all serious injury and fatal collisions, and thorough follow-up on critical hit-and-run incidents. Complementing this enforcement is the Community Relations Unit, featuring four dedicated officers—two focused on coordinating major city events and two serving as key downtown patrol officers—who are the primary liaisons for community engagement, problem-solving, and qualityof-life policing. Finally, the Police Reserve Officer Unit provides crucial, trained support, significantly increasing the department’s flexibility and presence for both planned operations and emergency response. SOG’s structure ensures maximum expertise is brought to bear on complex traffic safety issues while maintaining a robust, visible, and proactive presence within the community's core areas.

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DOWNTOWN OFFICERS In 2025, the Woodstock Police Department proudly introduced two dedicated downtown officer positions as part of the City’s continued commitment to enhancing safety, accessibility, and community engagement in the heart of Woodstock. These newly established roles reflect the department’s ongoing investment in maintaining a vibrant, welcoming downtown district that supports local businesses, enriches visitor experiences, and strengthens the sense of connection that defines the community. The downtown officers serve as highly visible, approachable ambassadors for both the department and the city. Their daily responsibilities extend well beyond traditional patrol functions, with a strong emphasis on building and maintaining meaningful relationships with business owners, employees, and residents. Whether checking in with merchants to address concerns, assisting visitors navigating downtown, or participating in community events, these officers play an integral role in fostering the collaborative environment that keeps Downtown Woodstock thriving. In addition to their presence along main corridors, downtown officers are tasked with actively patrolling Woodstock’s expansive and growing trail system. From the Noonday Creek Trail to local greenspaces and pedestrian pathways, their consistent patrols help ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy these amenities with a sense of security and comfort. Their visibility along the trails also encourages healthy outdoor activity and reinforces the community’s shared commitment to maintaining safe, accessible recreational spaces for all.

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COMMUNITY OUTREACH The Community Relations Unit (CRU) serves as the primary bridge between the Woodstock Police Department and the residents, businesses, and visitors of our city. Our mission is to foster transparency, build trust, and create a safer environment through consistent, positive engagement. This unit manages a variety of citizen-focused outreach initiatives and events, including perennial favorites like Coffee with a Cop and National Night Out, directly engaging the public in casual, non-enforcement settings. The CRU also coordinates the activities of our dedicated downtown officers, who are specifically assigned to maintain a visible and approachable presence in the central business district, proactively addressing quality-of-life issues, supporting local merchants, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our vibrant downtown area. The overall goal of the CRU is to enhance police-community partnerships and elevate the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Woodstock.

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Woodstock Police Department participated in 143 community events and educated over four thousand citizens in 2025.

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H.E.A.T. UNIT In October 2025, The Woodstock Police Department continued its strong participation in the H.E.A.T. (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) program, a collaborative initiative launched by the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and local law enforcement agencies. This program is instrumental in the ongoing mission to combat impaired and aggressive driving, which remains a leading cause of serious crashes and fatalities on Georgia's roadways. By actively participating in H.E.A.T., the Woodstock Police Department operates as part of a multi-jurisdictional task force dedicated to meeting the statewide goal of reducing impaired driving incidents by 10% and rigorously enforcing laws against aggressive driving behaviors. The program’s comprehensive approach focuses not only on heightened enforcement but also significantly emphasizes public education, providing officers with advanced training and resources to effectively inform residents about state laws regulating aggressive and impaired driving. This continued partnership enhances community safety by ensuring that Woodstock’s main corridors and side roads are better patrolled and that drivers remain constantly aware of the legal consequences and public risks associated with reckless driving, thereby protecting and benefiting the entire community.

DUI ARRESTS

SPEEDING CITATIONS AND WARNINGS

1,179

DISTRACTED DRIVING CITATIONS AND WARNINGS

355

SEATBELT CITATIONS AND WARNINGS

320

COMMUNITY EVENTS

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TRAFFIC UNIT The Traffic Unit of the Woodstock Police Department is a specialized, proactive division dedicated to enhancing roadway safety and enforcing traffic regulations throughout the city. For 2025, this unit maintained responsibility for critical traffic enforcement, including monitoring compliance with speed limits and aggressive driving laws, conducting safety-focused checkpoints, and implementing community education initiatives regarding safe driving practices. Furthermore, the unit is responsible for the thorough investigation of all serious traffic accidents, leveraging the specialized skills of its certified Accident Reconstructionist(s) to determine contributing factors and precise collision dynamics. Through these comprehensive efforts—ranging from visible enforcement to detailed forensic analysis—the Traffic Unit aims to significantly reduce the incidence of traffic-related accidents, improve public safety, and foster a higher quality of life for residents and visitors in Woodstock.

Crashes With Injuries

Driving Under the Influence

Hit and Runs

Traffic Stops

1036

Arrests

101

Crashes Without Injury

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION The Woodstock Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division serves as a cornerstone of public safety by conducting comprehensive investigations into all criminal activity affecting the community. Highly trained and experienced detectives handle a broad spectrum of cases, including property crimes, violent offenses, narcotics violations, financial and fraud-related crimes, and technology-enabled offenses. As part of the department’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations, members of the Criminal Investigations Division also serve on the state Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Through ICAC, detectives work proactively to identify, investigate, and apprehend individuals who exploit or endanger children online. The division collaborates closely with local, state, and federal partners, allowing for the exchange of intelligence and the coordination of necessary resources to effectively address complex cases. Criminal Investigations Division detectives pursue every lead with professionalism and persistence, conducting interviews, collecting and analyzing evidence, and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. This dedication, supported by advanced investigative tools and strong interagency partnerships, helps bring closure to victims and safeguards the safety and well-being of all who live in, work in, and visit the City of Woodstock.

Investigations

450

Evidence and Property Processed

1572

Search Warrants

150

Interviews

625

Arrests

284

Task Force Agents

Tips Received

Arrests

Page 17

The City of Woodstock Police Department has demonstrated a strong commitment to proactive policing, which has played a major role in its impressive crime-closure rate. The Woodstock Police Department has consistently invested in communitybased strategies, early intervention, and data-driven patrol efforts. Officers regularly engage with neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses to build relationships that encourage residents to report concerns early and provide valuable information. This partnership focused approach allows the department to identify trends before they become major issues and allocate our resources efficiently.

Sergeant Joseph LeCour

Because of this proactive approach and the advents and acquisition of new technology being offered to both detectives and uniformed patrol Woodstock has seen a significant decrease in crime rate and an increase in closure rate. In 2025 Woodstock has achieved a crime closure rate that outperforms our previous years. Detectives, Special Operations, and patrol officers work closely together, ensuring cases move quickly from initial report to final disposition. The department emphasizes follow through, communication with victims, and the use of modern investigative tools, along with established best practices, all of which contribute to solving cases at a high rate. This success is the result of consistent planning, strong community relationships, and a professional culture centered on accountability and excellence.

50.55% Closure Rate on all Group A offenses

Society 23.6%

National Incident Based Reporting System Group A Reportable Offenses

Property 52.5% Persons 23.8%

2021

2022

Crimes Against Persons: actions committed against the will of an individual Crimes Against Property: involves theft or destruction of another's property

2023

2024

2025

Crimes Against Society: represent society's prohibition against engaging in certain types of activity and are crimes against the state or moral turpitude

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

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TRAINING INSTRUCTORS General Instructor

Firearms Instructor

Emergency vehicle Operations Course

Use Of Force

Force Science

Speed Detection

Defensive Tactics

Tactical Medicine

Standard Field Sobriety Test

Instruction Hours: 837

Training Hours: 12,787

In 2025, the Woodstock Police Department invested heavily in developing its personnel, completing more than 12,000 hours of training. Of those hours, 837 were led by our own training cadre, reflecting our commitment to leadership and to providing highquality instruction from within our ranks. This ongoing professional development supports our dedication to quality through continuous improvement and ensures our officers remain prepared to serve a growing and evolving community. Beyond departmental training, several officers expanded their leadership and operational abilities through advanced professional programs. This year, we proudly celebrated two graduates of the Command College at Columbus State University, and an additional four officers continued their studies and completed the Professional Management Program at Reinhardt College. These achievements demonstrate our integrity in all we say and do by investing in education that strengthens ethical decision-making, strategic thinking, and service-focused leadership. As we look to the future of the organization, we are also pleased to recognize four officers who successfully completed the basic mandate academy at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC). Their accomplishments embody our values of reverence for the law, respect for others, and service to the community, ensuring that each new officer joins the department with a strong foundation rooted in professionalism and public trust. Together, these milestones reinforce our department’s ongoing promise to uphold our core values while providing exceptional service to the City of Woodstock.

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TECHNICAL SERVICES

Lieutenant Jeremy Johnson

The Technical Services Unit leads the Woodstock Police Department’s modernization and simplification of infrastructure and technology operations by actively evaluating technology to ensure the highest level of service to both officers and citizens. The unit oversees a fleet of 75 vehicles as well as the department’s law enforcement electronic systems. It manages essential programs including body-worn cameras, in-car cameras, e-citation systems, and the report-writing database while maintaining structured records management protocols. Through the Terminal Agency Coordinator and Records Specialist, the unit ensures strict compliance with state and federal regulations governing records management and terminal operations. In 2025, the division efficiently processed 2,799 open records requests and completed 973 background checks, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service and information security. In addition to managing current technologies, the Technical Services Unit remains focused on continuous improvement by actively evaluating emerging software, equipment, and industry best practices. The unit routinely compares the department’s existing systems with those used by other leading agencies to ensure Woodstock remains at the forefront of law enforcement innovation. This ongoing assessment supports the identification of opportunities to upgrade tools, expand capabilities, and enhance both officer safety and operational efficiency.

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FIELD OPERATIONS The Field Operations Division serves as the cornerstone of the Woodstock Police Department’s commitment to community safety and well-being. Comprised of Uniform Patrol Services and the Canine Unit, the division maintains a high-visibility presence throughout the city, ensuring rapid deployment to emergencies and comprehensive support for all law enforcement matters. Patrol officers are dedicated to protecting both residents and visitors, conducting routine patrols and responding to calls for service with urgency and care. This consistent engagement establishes a foundation of reliability and trust, strengthening the bond between the department and the public. The division prioritizes a collaborative approach, fostering open communication and active partnerships between officers and citizens to ensure community needs are clearly understood and addressed. By combining proactive policing strategies with swift response capabilities and meaningful community involvement, the Field Operations Division plays a vital role in preserving a secure environment. These sustained efforts reinforce public confidence and safety, ensuring Woodstock remains a welcoming and vibrant place to live, work, and thrive.

CALLS FOR SERVICE Priority 3 33%

Priority 1 54.2%

Priority 2 12.8%

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UNIFORMED PATROL

Sergeant Jason Swanson

Alpha Shift

Lieutenant Mike deCocq

Sergeant Travis Peterkin

Charlie Shift

Sergeant Justin Thorpe

Bravo Shift

Lieutenant Matt O’Keefe

Sergeant Nikoulas Petit-Alleyne

Delta Shift

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CANINE UNIT

FIGO

PATCH

VEDOS

TESA

ERA

The Woodstock Police Department’s Canine Unit is a highly valued and essential component of the department’s comprehensive public safety strategy. This specialized unit utilizes expertly trained canines to support a wide range of law enforcement functions, including narcotics detection, evidence recovery, explosive detection, tracking of wanted and missing persons, and the apprehension of criminal suspects. Each canine team participates in rigorous, ongoing training to maintain peak performance across diverse and often challenging operational environments. Their advanced capabilities greatly enhance officer safety, deescalation abilities, operational efficiency, and overall community protection. Beyond enforcement duties, the Canine Unit also serves as a powerful bridge to the community. Through educational programs, public demonstrations, and outreach events, the teams help strengthen trust and foster positive relationships between the department and the residents it serves. By leveraging the exceptional skills and versatility of its canines, the Woodstock Police Department’s Canine Unit makes a substantial and enduring contribution to the safety, security, and well-being of the Woodstock community.

1,140

1,119

186

Training hours

Deployments

Arrests

People Found

Page 23

AWARDS Woodstock Way Award Officer Jonathan Flores Officer Kalon Fields

Distinguished Service Award

Sergeant Justin Thorpe

Assistant Chief of Police Brian Aligood

Supervisor of the Year

Officer Joshua Collie

Legacy Award Detective Bryan Zapp

Volunteer of the Year LJ LuBow - Black Riffle Coffee Company

Detective Matthew Godfrey

Officer of the Year

Life Saving Award Corporal John Haile Officer Jacob Wood Officer Skylar Voeltner Officer Zack Parker

Officer Omar De Los Rios

Rookie of the Year

Shift Service Award Alpha Shift - Officer Jonathan Flores Bravo Shift - Officer Omar De Los Rios Charlie Shift - Officer Paul Bennett Delta Shift - Officer Joshua Buckner Special Operations Groups - Officer Justin Hinkle

Stephanie Mari

Criminal Investigation Division - Detective Matthew Godfrey

Civilian of the Year

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END OF WATCH

In 2025, the Woodstock Police Department lost Bryan Zappa dear friend and former Detective for the department. Detective Zapp began his career with Woodstock in 2005, where he quickly distinguished himself through his dedication and professionalism. He was promoted to Detective in 2018 and continued to serve with honor until 2025, when he left Woodstock to further his law enforcement career with the Cherokee County School Police. Bryan took immense pride in his work and in the impact he made, not only with the community he served but also within the department he called home. He welcomed everyone who joined the Woodstock Police Department family and was especially proud of his role in mentoring and precepting new officers.

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LEGACY AWARD The Legacy Award was presented in honor of Detective Bryan Zapp, whose lasting impact on the Woodstock community and beyond continued to be felt even after his passing in 2025. Through his sustained dedication, compassion, and commitment to service, he positively influenced countless individuals and helped improve the quality of life for those he served. This award recognized the enduring legacy he left behind—one defined by integrity, mentorship, and a genuine care for both the community and those who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

Chief Roland Castro Woodstock Police Department 12453 Highway 92 Woodstock, GA 30188 Woodstockga.gov/police