april 2026 newsletter
. Neighborhoods & Faith Communities
A MOMENT WITH A UNITED VISION FOR A SAFER, STRONGER NEWTON COUNTY
• Maintain a watchful eye on one another. If you see suspicious activity, report it. Early reporting prevents escalation.
• Encourage holiday décor that enhances visibility and safety: well-lit walkways, trimmed shrubbery and visible children’s
• For our seniors: establish buddy systems for shopping trips and errands. Criminals often target isolation; connection
Public safety is often viewed as the responsibility of law enforcement alone, but the truth is far greater and more powerful than that. Safety is a shared responsibility. It is a partnership. It is a commitment that requires each of us to play an active role. When a community fully embraces this truth, it becomes stronger, more connected and more resilient against the challenges we face.
Newton County is in a position to become one of the safest and most desirable places to live, work, raise a family and pursue opportunity—not only in the Greater Metropolitan area but across the State of Georgia and this nation. However, achieving that vision will require intentional collaboration and a unified effort from every sector of our community.
At the heart of our mission is the protection of what matters most, and that is our children. They represent our future, our hope and our greatest responsibility. Ensuring their safety is not just a priority; it is a calling that must be embraced by all of us. While the Office of the Sheriff continues to strengthen school safety initiatives, increase visibility and build relationships with students and staff, the role of the community remains essential.
When parents stay engaged in their children’s lives, when they communicate openly and guide them with wisdom and care, it creates a strong foundation. When educators foster safe, supportive environments where students feel valued and heard, it builds trust and accountability. When community members invest time in mentoring and encouraging young people, it provides direction and purpose. And when our youth understand that they have a voice, that they can speak up and make a difference, they become active participants in their own safety and success.
Protecting our children is not accomplished through a single program or initiative. It is achieved through a culture of care, awareness and involvement that surrounds them every day.
Equally important is the role of our neighborhoods and communities. There is tremendous power in neighbors knowing one another, looking out for one another and taking pride in where they live. When communities are connected, they become stronger
and less vulnerable to crime and disorder. A watchful and engaged neighborhood creates an environment where suspicious activity is recognized early and addressed quickly. It fosters relationships not only among residents but also between the community and the deputies who serve them.
Our business community also plays a critical role in shaping the safety and success of Newton County. Businesses are more than economic drivers; they are community anchors. When businesses take proactive steps to ensure safety, whether through improved lighting, surveillance systems or collaboration with law enforcement, they contribute to an environment where employees and customers feel secure. Strong partnerships between businesses and the Office of the Sheriff create a network of communication and preparedness that benefits the entire county.
In addition, our faith-based organizations stand as pillars of strength, guidance and unity. Throughout Newton County, churches and faith communities provide not only spiritual leadership but also outreach, support and hope to individuals and families. These institutions have the unique ability to reach hearts and minds, to address challenges at their root and to bring people together across all walks of life. By working alongside law enforcement, faith leaders can assist in fostering peace, promoting understanding and strengthening the moral fabric of our community.
Another key component of building a safer Newton County is meaningful engagement with our youth. When young people are given opportunities to grow, to lead and to connect with positive role models, it changes the trajectory of their lives. Programs that bring deputies and youth together help break down barriers, build trust and create mutual respect. These relationships are powerful. They not only reduce fear and misunderstanding but also inspire young people to make positive choices and pursue productive paths.
Communication is also essential in today’s world. An informed community is a safer community. The ability to share information quickly, accurately and effectively allows us to respond to concerns, prevent
SHERIFF BROWN
escalation. children’s play areas. connection provides protection.
incidents and maintain citizens awareness of what is occurring around them. Whether through community meetings, digital platforms or direct engagement, maintaining open lines of communication strengthens trust and enhances our collective ability to maintain the safety of Newton County.
Preparedness is another area where we can all make a difference. When citizens are equipped with knowledge, whether it is personal safety awareness, emergency readiness or understanding how to respond in critical situations, they become empowered. They are no longer passive observers but active participants in the safety of their community. This level of preparedness creates confidence and resilience, both of which are essential in today’s ever-changing environment.
As we consider the broader picture, it is important to recognize that public safety and quality of life are deeply connected. A safe community attracts businesses, supports education and enhances the overall well-being of its residents. Families are more likely to settle in areas where they feel secure. Businesses are more likely to invest where stability exists. Students are more likely to succeed in environments where they feel protected and supported. Safety is not just about preventing crime; it is about creating conditions where people can thrive.
Unity is our greatest strength. It is what allows us to overcome challenges, to bridge differences and to move forward with a shared purpose. But unity requires effort. It requires us to be intention-
al about working together, about listening to one another and about supporting one another. It requires us to move beyond individual interests and focus on the greater good of our community.
Each of us has a role to play. It may be as simple as being an involved neighbor, as impactful as mentoring a young person or as committed as partnering with law enforcement on community initiatives. No contribution is too small when it comes to building a safer Newton County. Every action, every effort and every act of involvement contributes to the bigger picture.
The future of our community is not determined by chance; it is shaped by choice. It is shaped by the decisions we make, the actions we take and the commitment we demonstrate every day.
Let us choose to be engaged.
Let us choose to be united.
Let us choose to move forward together.
And as we do, I am confident that Newton County will continue to rise as a model of safety, strength and community—one of the very best places to live, work, learn and raise a family in the State of Georgia and across this nation.
May God bless you, your families and the great community of Newton County.
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.
agency ’ s contact numbers
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NCSO HONORS EXCELLENCE AT 14TH ANNUAL AWARDS CEREMONY
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted their 14th Annual Awards Ceremony Thursday, April 2, at the Porter Performing Arts Center in Covington, Georgia. The event recognized deputies, detention officers, staff members, and retirees for their outstanding service, dedication and heroic actions in 2025.
The evening began with the presentation of Years of Service awards. Employees reaching milestones of five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years received certificates in recognition of their dedication, while a special plaque was presented to those who reached 35 years of service.
Division Deputy of the Year awards were presented to individuals who demonstrated exceptional performance in their respective areas:
• Criminal Investigations Division: Inv. Odalis Alberto
• Detention Division: Sgt. Wesley Ramsey
• Patrol Division: Cpl. Delarion Walls
• Special Investigations Division: Special Agent Devon Bullock
• Court Services: Deputy Shawanda Arnold
• Support Services: Deputy Diana Luong
• Office of Professional Standards: Sgt. Felicia Jefferson
Deputy DeMarcus Pope was named Deputy of the Year for his leadership, professionalism, and exceptional service to the Sheriff’s Office. Rookie of the Year awards were presented to Deputy Dominique Dunn for Uniform Patrol and Detention Officer Marvis Nesbitt for the Detention Center, highlighting their strong starts and early dedication in their careers.
Cpl. Jeffrey Alexander was named Instructor of the Year for his outstanding leadership, dedication to training and continued commitment to excellence in mentoring his students.
Ruben Brambila was named Employee of the Year for his continued excellence and contributions to the agency’s mission.
Meritorious Service awards were presented in three groups. Sgt. Kenneth Kent, Deputy Da’von Sydnor, Deputy Joseph McClarin, Deputy Dominique Dunn, Deputy
Tyrique Woods and Deputy Shanta Garrett were recognized for exceptional teamwork and service. Deputy Garrett remained on stage to receive an individual Meritorious Service Award for separate commendable actions. A third group honor was presented to Cpl. Chardelle McFarlin and Marcus Gaither (citizen).
Life Saving Awards were presented in two groups. The first group honored Cpl. Patrick Gilbert and Covington Police Officer Michael Ward. The second group included Deputy Brandon Franklin, Deputy Devon Sydnor, Deputy Joseph McClarin, Cpl. Delarion Walls and Cpl. Chardelle McFarlin.
Deputy John Restivo, Deputy Marco Gibson, Deputy Devan Moore, Cpl. Michael Gregg, Cpl. Kimberly Cox and Tommy Hailey received the Humanitarian Award for their compassion and continued positive impact in the community.
Retirement recognition was given to Patricia Fitts, Susan Gray, Danny Peppers and Bryan Hale for their service to the agency. A special tribute was made in memory of Captain Thomas Kunz, with his family accepting his retirement certificate on his behalf.
Sheriff Ezell Brown expressed his appreciation for all honorees, stating, “Each of these individuals represents the very best of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Their service, character and commitment continue to make a lasting impact on this community.”
Sheriff Brown also took a moment to express his gratitude to all the sponsors of the 14th Annual Awards Ceremony, including Legacy Commissary Services, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, Fox Theatre, Embassy Suites Hotels Midtown and Georgia Aquarium. He acknowledged their vital support, which made the event possible.
During a special moment of recognition that evening, Sheriff Brown honored Deputy Carlos Rhodes, Dharma Davis and Vickie Douglas for consistently going above and beyond the call of duty. Their exceptional commitment, professionalism and continued dedication to the agency were highlighted as exemplary of the values and service the organization strives to uphold.
DEPUTIES CONNECT WITH STUDENTS AT EAST NEWTON CAREER DAY
On April 2, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office had the opportunity to take part in Career Day at East Newton Elementary School, spending time with students and sharing a closer look at careers in law enforcement.
Deputies spoke with students about their roles within the agency, the importance of public service and what it takes to pursue a career in the field. From patrol to specialized units, students learned about the many different paths available within the Sheriff’s Office and had the chance to ask questions and engage with law enforcement officers.
DEPUTY SUGG SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES 160-HOUR DRE PROGRAM
Deputy Jonathan Sugg has successfully completed the rigorous 160-hour Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) program through the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.
This intensive training is a critical tool in the fight against impaired driving, a serious issue that claims an estimated 30 lives every day across the United States. In Georgia, alcohol was a contributing factor in 325 highway fatalities in 2024, and drugs other than alcohol are involved in about 18% of motor vehicle driver deaths. These numbers highlight the ongoing danger impaired drivers pose to our communities.
Through the DRE program, Deputy Sugg has developed advanced training to recognize when a driver is under the influence of drugs and understand how impairment presents itself in real-world situations. This expertise plays an important role in removing dangerous drivers from our roadways and protecting innocent lives.
Congratulations, Deputy Sugg, and thank you for your dedication to keeping Newton County community safe!
NCSO GRADUATES NINE OFFICERS FROM ADVANCED SWAT COURSE
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office graduated nine law enforcement officers from the agency’s SWAT Level II Training Course, held April 6–10, 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 Sheriff’s Office, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Conyers Police Department and Monroe Police Department.
NCSO PARTNERS WITH LOCAL AGENCIES FOR LIFE-SAVING INITIATIVE
On April 11, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with Newton County Fire Service, the American Red Cross and the Covington Fire Department for a Smoke Alarm Blitz in the Settlers Grove subdivision.
Together, they visited 45 homes, installed 172 smoke alarms and helped make 146 residents safer.
Did you know working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a fire in half? Visit newtoncountyga.gov/418/Fire-Safety-Education to learn more about the Newton County Fire Safety Education Division.
WELCOME Newly Hired Employees
Clinton French Deputy Sheriff, Investigator
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County
Sheriff’s Office welcome you to the team!
