NCSO JUNE 2021 NEWSLETTER
A MOMENT WITH LEADERSHIP — A COMMITMENT TO CHANGE AND EXCELLENCE I want to take this opportunity to address a subject I am extremely passionate about: Leadership. As everyone should be aware, effective leadership is crucial to the success of every organization globally, not only from a business perspective but also from a law enforcement one. In fact, leadership, in my opinion, is of such major importance that I have decided to change the classification of my command staff to Leadership Team. Effective leadership possesses the influence to make or break a department, and the best litmus test is to take a step back and observe those in close proximity to you. Are you serving side-by-side with motivated and productive personnel? When an individual from the leadership hierarchy approaches, do facial expressions and body language change? Is productivity contagious, or is it a culture of resentment and discouragement? The advantage of effective leadership is, once the skills are mastered, a team can become a well-oiled machine. The team can literally function with a minimum measure of supervision. On the other hand, when ineffectual leadership skills are employed, even by one deficient or inadequate leader, the entire agency is contaminated with low morale, anger, decreased productivity until coerced, increased workers’ compensation claims, an elevated risk of injuries, and an abuse of sick leave. In essence, effective leadership changes lives, shapes organizations, impacts communities, and possesses the potential to influence the world. In order for Law Enforcement to be efficient in the 21st century, it must be willing to undergo an exponential metamorphosis. In other words, it must be willing to change considerably. Mindsets must change; consequently, persons in leadership positions must possess an enormous commitment and willingness to change in order to be, and remain relevant. The Office of the Sheriff hosts an annual leadership training conference, which provides an opportunity for our leaders, as well as those in law enforcement agencies throughout the Greater Metropolitan area, to enhance their knowledge and skills. Unfortunately, due to the challenges presented by the global
pandemic, the leadership training conference was cancelled in 2020 and 2021. In lieu of this year’s leadership training conference, I want to offer a few tips on leadership, particularly transformational. I strongly encourage all personnel of the Sheriff’s Office, especially leaders and managers, inclusive of mid-level and first tear managers, to read, digest and practice same on a continual basis. Transformational leadership is a theory of leadership, where a leader works with teams to identify needed change, creating a vision to guide the change through inspiration, and executing the change in tandem with committed members of a group. It isn’t an impossible task to become a Transormational Leader; however, it requires practice, practice and more practice. Based on my analysis of this leadership style, such leader must create an inspiring vision. People need a compelling reason to follow your lead, and this is why it is imperative that you create and communicate an inspiring vision of the future. Your vision sets out your team, unit or division’s purpose. How does one become a Transformational Leader? 1. By creating an inspiring vision of the future for your Team, Unit, Division, etc. If you are developing a vision for your team, start with the agency’s mission, then explore methods in which your team can contribute directly to it. 2. Motivate your personnel to buy into and deliver the vision Starting with the agency’s mission statement, it is important that you appeal to your employees’ values and inspire them concerning where you are going to lead them, and why. Also, communicate your vision often. 3. Manage delivery of the vision In order for you to manage the delivery of your vision will require combining effective project management with sensitive change management.
SHERIFF BROWN 4. Develop an ever-stronger, trust-based relationship with your people As a transformational leader, it is necessary that you focus your attention on your people, and passionately work to assist them in achieving their goals and dreams.
9. Share Necessary Information Sharing information is important for several reasons. In addition to demonstrating you are a team-player, this also provides your employees with the necessary tools to perform their responsibilities. Sharing data assists in developing credibility with your team.
5. Avoid Micromanaging No one relishes being micromanaged, as it can certainly have a profound negative effect on unit or division team members. This does not mean you should allow your personnel to function as they desire without any guidance or supervision; however, you can and should maintain some level of control over their actions without them feeling they are being micromanaged.
10. Body Language Matters Your body language either illustrates whether you are listening to the other person or believe what he/ she is saying. One simple method of building strong relationships is via eye contact. When people avoid making eye contact, it makes them appear deceitful, discomforting, or unreliable.
6. Model the Behavior You Want to Observe Employees often learn about the culture of an agency and its expectations by observing the behavior of its management. If you do the opposite of what you say you will not do, they will not feel as inclined to follow your directions. To show that teamwork and trust are the type of qualities you esteem, you must become an example of these characteristics on a daily basis. 7. Competence Is Imperative Please understand that as a leader, your team looks to you for support and guidance. The fact that you are a manager, often denotes you are perceived as the person with the greatest knowledge and experience. Accordingly, it is imperative that you demonstrate those proficiencies at all times.
As the primary Executive Leader of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, I have provided a significant number of fundamental tips for your consideration and immediate practice. I ask that you carefully study and utilize same on a continuous basis for your skill-set advancement, inclusive of the continued success of this agency. Allow me to close my comments by quoting two of my favorite authors: Robin Sharma has so eloquently stated, “Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence, and inspiration. Impact involves getting results, influence is about spreading the passion you have for your work, and you have to inspire teammates and customers.” And finally, one of my favorite and gifted authors is John Maxell, who imposingly declared, “Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.”
8. Give Employees the Benefit of the Doubt When you are working with your team, be willing to give your personnel the benefit of the doubt. Conflict in the workplace can lead to employee distrust of leadership.
Sheriff Ezell Brown Newton County, Georgia
general information
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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contact numbers
SHERIFF’S SECRETARY GENERAL INFORMATION JAIL INFORMATION JAIL FAX INVESTIGATIONS INVESTIGATION FAX PATROL UNIT TRAFFIC UNIT WARRANT UNIT WEST SIDE PRECINCT EAST SIDE PRECINCT TIP LINE
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678-625-1401 678-625-1403 678-625-1420 678-625-1450 678-625-1412 678-625-1451 678-625-1410 678-625-1469 678-625-1411 770-788-7812 770-243-8227 678-625-5007
social media
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@newtonsheriffga Featured Photo: The Newton County Sheriff’s Office motorcycle fleet posed for a portrait outside Newton County Fire Station 7, located at 11663 Brown Bridge Road in Covington.
meet the criminal investigation division
The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is tasked with evaluating reports for the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Where actionable information can be developed, the division conducts follow-up investigations to identify and bring to justice the criminal responsible for the crime. CID investigates crimes against persons, such as murder; rape; aggravated assaults; kidnappings; armed robberies; and sexual assaults, and crimes against property, such as auto thefts; burglaries; theft by taking; and forgeries. CID welcomes the public’s assistance in reporting crimes and providing information about investigations. Anonymous tips can be provided to the division While at a crime scene, Cpl. Mickey Kitchens by calling the agency’s tip line at 678-625-5007. points at criminal evidence on the ground with a pointer.
CID IS COMPOSED OF EIGHT UNITS:
• Major Felony Unit • Crimes Against People Unit • Crimes Against Property Unit • Crimes Against Children Unit • Crime Scene Investigations Unit • Sex Offender Registration Unit • DEA Taskforce Unit • Crime Analysis/Criminal Intelligence Unit
Cpl. Mickey Kitchens investigates an arson.
Capt. Keith Crum of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office retired on June 4, 2021. Capt. Crum has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Master Degree in Public Administration from Columbus State University Law Enforcement Command College. Capt. Crum joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1993, serving in the capacities of Deputy Sheriff, Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Lieutenant, State Certification Manager, and Commander of the Office of Professional Standards. Prior to his retirement, he served as the leader of the CID, Sex Offender Registration Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit (CSI), Crime Suppression Unit (CSU), and State Certification Unit. On June 2, 2021, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Sheriff’s Office staff honored Capt. Crum during a retirement celebration held inside the agency’s training room. “I am honored to stand here today, even though I have mixed emotions because we have spent the last 28 years together at one organization,” said Sheriff Brown. “We are going to miss you, but we know that you are only a phone call away. Captain Crum, I want to thank you for your 28 years of service, even though I was not the Sheriff during that entire time. I wish you all the best in your retirement.”
HAPPY RETIREMENT
farewell CAP TAIN KEI TH CRUM
seven inmates graduate from ncso rsat program On June 4, 2021, Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office hosted a graduation ceremony for its Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program inside the agency’s training room, located at its main headquarters at 15151 Alcovy Road in Covington. Sheriff Brown and the Sheriff’s Office, with support from the Superior Court judges and the District Attorney’s Office, graduated four males — John Baggett III, Anthony Bennett, Joe Lester, and Samuel Miller — and three females — Alexis Cathcart, Lindsey Glenn, and Sabrina Harp — from the RSAT program. Two of the graduates received certificates of completion for technical training from Piedmont Technical College. In a speech, Sheriff Brown thanked those who were in attendance, in-person or virtually through Zoom and Facebook Live. He thanked the Superior Court judges and District Attorney’s Office for their continued support of the RSAT program. Additionally, he thanked Dr. Irvin Clark, Vice President of Economic Development at Piedmont Technical College, for his attendance and partnership “I thank all those who played a role in making this day possible,” said Sheriff Brown. “We realize this did not happen by just one individual. It took collection bodies to make sure this happened. And for all those who facilitated, we thank you so much. Again, we know this would be impossible if it was only just us.” Judge Destiny Bryant of the Alcovy Judicial Circuit, the guest speaker, provided words of wisdom and encouragement to the graduates. “Throughout my work, I have seen first-hand how addiction can impact lives and families. Considering such, you all have made a major accomplishment graduating from this RSAT program. This day represents not only the end of the actual program but the beginning as you continue the commitment to turning your lives around.” The RSAT program provides inmate residents the opportunity for rehabilitation while incarcerated at the Newton County Detention Center. The three-month to six-month program is designated to help individuals develop cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills to solve substance abuse-related problems.
investigators solve theft by deception case This month, two Newton County Sheriff’s Office investigators and the Warrant Unit were recognized and commended for their recent investigatory work and successful arrest in a theft by deception case. In November 2020, Lt. Cortney Morrison filed a report with the Sheriff’s Office regarding a theft by deception incident where she was the victim of an ongoing scam that had targeted multiple other victims. Cpl. Jocelyn Detweiler and Inv. Jayme Broce oversaw the case that ultimately led to an arrest and confession. “Corporal Detweiler did not work this case any differently because we are friends. She worked this case as she does any other case, with 100% dedication and attention,” Lt. Morrison said. “Investigator Jayme Broce did not just assist because it was me. She did it because she is a team player, a great investigator, and wants justice for all victims.” Lt. Morrison also recognized the NCSO’s Warrant Unit for all its hard work. The Warrant Unit consists of Deputy David Gilbert and Deputy Matt Roberts. “Both of these deputies made the arrest in a timely
and professional manner,” Lt. Morrison said. “The offender requested to speak with the lead investigator, Corporal Detweiler. Deputy Gilbert called Corporal Detweiler to make the interview happen [...] This demonstrates teamwork throughout the agency.”
sheriff attends local graduation celebration
On June 18, 2021, Sheriff Ezell Brown and Deputy Michael Gregg attended a graduation celebration for Jadden Mitchell, who graduated from Newton County High School. “I am honored to have participated in the graduation celebration for Jadden Mitchell,” said Sheriff Brown. “I have known Jadden and his family for many years. I wish him all the best in his next endeavors. Congratulations, Jadden.”
King Solomon’s Daughters #001 provides father’s day breakfast to ncso deputies On June 19, 2021, King Solomon’s Daughters #001 provided Father’s Day breakfast to Newton County Sheriff’s Office deputies. “We always believed, maybe more so now than ever, that being a good police officer is the single most difficult profession — bar none,” the organization stated. “We are blessed to live in a community where the overwhelming majority of law enforcement officers are good men and women dedicated to keeping us safe.”
shiloh united methodist donates snacks to ncso On June 24, 2021, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office received a donation of snacks from Shiloh United Methodist Church, located at 10 Almon Church Road in Covington. Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Sheriff’s Office thank Pastor Mike Wadley and members of Shiloh United Methodist for their generous donation.
chief deputy and major attend the newton county fire station 8 ribbon-cutting ceremony On June 24, 2021, Chief Deputy Jerry Carter and Major Sammy Banks attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Newton County Fire Station 8, located at 2345 Gum Creek Road in Oxford, Georgia. Fire Station 8 is among one of the first in the state of Georgia to have a decontamination unit. The decontamination unit allows the firefighters to clean their equipment before showering, which decreases the risk of spreading contaminates to other firefighters. Those in attendance at the ribbon-cutting included Chairman Marcello Banes, Fire Chief Mike Conner, District 2 Commissioner Demond Mason, District 3 Commissioner Alana Sanders, former District 3 Commissioner Nancy Schulz, and Project Manager Jeff Prine.
sheriff participates in local drive-by graduation
On June 25, 2021, Sheriff Ezell Brown and Deputies Susan Young and Michael Gregg attended a local drive-by graduation ceremony for three high school graduates and one college graduate. “I am always honored to participate in local graduation celebrations,” said Sheriff Brown. “I applaud each and every one of our graduates, and I wish them all the best in your future endeavors.”
MEET THE NCSO 2021 INTERNS
Ahmari Fraiser
Nygil Ingram
Gabriel Jones
Crime Scene Investigation
Human Resources & Sex Offender Unit
Court Services
Not Pictured:
Markerria Dukes Sex Offender Unit
Brittany Ulmer
Aaliyah Francis
Administration & Human Resources
Office of Professional Standards
WELCOME new employees
Devin Bullock Deputy Sheriff, Recruit
Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office welcome you!
COMMITMENT loyalty sacrifice dedication www . newtonsheriffga . org