Sheriff Chris Clinton and Colonel Gene Moss address Fourth Amendment
News June 30, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – The Fourth Amendment was the topic of discussion at Mountain Movers and Shakers on the morning of Friday, June 29, 2018. Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton and Colonel Gene Moss – a retired law enforcement officer from Forsyth County, Georgia – advised citizens of their constitutional rights pertaining to search and seizure.
Colonel Gene Moss
The Fourth Amendment of the Bill of Rights reads: The right of people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Colonel Moss, who spent over four decades serving in law enforcement, opened the forum by asserting that citizens have the right to an expectation of privacy._
“We’re going to talk a little bit about searches, vehicle searches,” Moss said, adding that vehicle searches tend to be controversial, “First of all, if you’re in law enforcement, you’ve got to have a reason to stop somebody, ok? You’ve got to have a reason…Law enforcement, how far they push this thing to get into your car, to look in your vehicle,” Moss reiterated, “You’ve got to have a valid reason to stop somebody.”
Moss went on to explain that stopping a vehicle for infractions, such as driving with a broken or dim taillight or failure to maintain lane, in itself does not constitute a legitimate reason for a law enforcement officer to conduct a search.
Sheriff Clinton mirrored the colonel’s thoughts. “Anybody that’s been around me very long knows that I’m a liberty guy, a lover of the constitution,” Clinton said, going on to state that only one percent of the population commits crimes, and his office sees no reason to “harass” the other 99 percent.
The sheriff explained that reasonable and articulated suspicion, probable cause, a warrant issued by a judge, or citizen consent is necessary for a lawful search to be conducted. “For my purposes, I require by policy, our deputies have to be able to articulate what it was that lead them to ask for consent to search,” Clinton said, “This garbage about ‘Well, I don’t know you, and you don’t know me, and we’ve got a lot of drugs out here in the world. Mind if I go rifle through your stuff?’ Well if you don’t know me, and I don’t know you, why are you calling me a bad person? Shouldn’t I be observant enough and good enough at my job to know when criminal behavior is afoot?”
Reasonable suspicion is a standard of proof in United States law that is less than probable cause, the legal standard for arrests and warrants, but more than a hunch; it must be based on specific and articulable facts, taken together with rational inferences from those facts, and the suspicion must be associated with the specific individual.
Probable cause is the standard by which police authorities have reason to obtain a warrant for the arrest of a suspected criminal or the issuing of a search warrant. The principle behind the standard is to limit the power of authorities to perform random or abusive searches, and promote the lawful gathering of evidence during criminal arrest and prosecution.
Mountain Movers and Shakers meet Fridays at 8:00 a.m. at Sundance Grill in Hiawassee, with different community speakers each week. Meetings are open to the public, and membership is not required.
Sheriff Clinton and Superintendent Berrong discuss school security
News February 24, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County officials gathered nine days after the Parkland, Florida, massacre to discuss school safety concerns with the community. Sundance Grill was filled to near-capacity during Friday’s Movers and Shakers morning meeting as residents congregated to hear School Superintendent Dr. Darren Berrong and Sheriff Clinton share their thoughts in the aftermath of the tragedy. Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith, and Hiawassee Council Amy Barrett and Kris Berrong attended the weekly forum.
Towns County Sheriff endorses Kemp, considers Abrams “clear and present danger” to way of life
News October 19, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton officially endorsed Republican Gubernatorial candidate Brian Kemp, stating that it is, “imperative that we protect our state from the insane radicals who would fundamentally change our state, our nation, and even our beloved county…”
“In my brief 50 years, I have not witnessed a time when America was so polarized,” Sheriff Clinton explained, “We live in a time when the mainstream media is actively and openly lying to viewers. We find ourselves living in a day when public officials appear to be encouraging insurrection, perhaps even treason. The left is no longer interested in civil discourse. Evelyn Beatrice Hall’s famous statement, ‘I disapprove of what you say, but I defend to the death your right to say it’ is no longer spoken of in the halls of higher learning. Rather, the left has resorted to the use of paid mobs to bully and intimidate conservatives. Most of us were taught to believe in absolute truth. We are now told we should sit down and shut up as the so-called ‘narrative’ of the left trumps any and all fact. ‘Guilty until proven innocent’ appears to be the new motto of the left.”
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton
“Most of us were taught right from wrong, taught to fear God, to respect others, to tell the truth, and many of us were advised that if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all,” Clinton continued, “We were taught to love our country. In school we learned how our nation’s founders risked their reputations, fortunes, lives, and the lives of their sons to purchase with blood the freedom guaranteed by the Constitution of these United States of America. These wonderful human beings we call police officers, who place their lives on the line each shift, leaving their own precious families at home to go out and protect others, were the good guys. We taught our children to trust them and reach out to them if they needed help. Now children are being taught to fear the police. Who will they turn to for help?”
“These values represent the Georgia and America that I love and believe in,” the sheriff expressed, “This is the state and nation in which I grew up and want to raise my children in. Our home and heritage are currently under siege by the left. My friend Brian Kemp shares our belief in the greatness of Georgia and America. His opponent, a socialist, wants to erase the Georgia we know and love. Whereas Brian Kemp has been a friend to Georgia law enforcement, a friend to Towns County and a friend to all Georgians, his opponent is currently suing Georgia in an apparent attempt to find some liberal judge who will allow illegals and non-Georgia citizens to vote in our elections.
“Many Georgians may not know that Barack Hussein Obama’s Department of Homeland Security attempted to hack into our state elections database during the 2016 elections. Brian Kemp, our Secretary of State, not only stopped them, but under his leadership, the malicious attacks were traced back to the DHS. All we heard on the news were red herring reports of ‘Russian collusion.’ The appointed leftist leaders of the formerly revered FBI, were not only leaking information to the press, but were apparently intentionally deceiving federal judges, and the America people with a phony, paid for, deception. The very same folks were simultaneously clearing Hillary Clinton of any wrong-doing prior to even an interview. Think about that: the FBI being used as a political weapon. That is the vision the left has for Georgia and America.”
“These are just some of the reasons it is imperative that we elect Brian Kemp our Governor of Georgia. I have known Brian personally for many years,” Sheriff Clinton stated, “I consider Brian Kemp a friend and can attest to his deeply held conservative beliefs and values. More importantly, Brian Kemp is an unflinching leader who is unafraid to speak the truth in the face of a malicious press. I would be honored to call my friend Brian Kemp my governor. Brian Kemp is a proven leader we can count on. His opponent presents what I consider a clear and present danger to our very way of life.”
Clinton encouraged voters to elect a team that will support a Brian Kemp administration.
“We cannot allow the insane behavior that has been occurring in Washington, D.C. to infect the State of Georgia,” Clinton concluded, “I cannot state this strongly enough: to protect Georgia as we know it, we must elect Brian Kemp our Governor, Chris Carr for Attorney General, Geoff Duncan for Lieutenant Governor, and Brad Raffensburger for Secretary of State. It is imperative that we protect our state from the insane radicals who would fundamentally change our state, our nation, and even our beloved county into a place I wouldn’t want to live, much less raise my children in. Please stand with me and let us finish this drill by electing conservative, God-fearing, Republican candidates who will protect Georgia.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Towns, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Sheriff Clinton shares summer safety tips
Sheriff's Desk August 13, 2018
From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton:
Summer is a time for outdoor play, renewing friendships, reliving memories, and trying new activities. So you and your family will also have a safe season, the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association offers the following summer safety guidelines:
• Never allow a child to swim unsupervised. If your child is going with a friend to swim, be sure to speak with the adult in charge. Don’t be afraid to ask if they know CPR. Children can drown quickly, and in very small amounts of water. Even a brief span of inattention can be fatal. Take the opportunity to evaluate your child’s ability and general comfort in the water. Make sure your child knows the safety rules.
• Hydration is important for all ages, particularly in the summer. A dehydrated person can become weak, faint, and vulnerable. Make sure you allow at least eight glasses of water per day for each person, more if you’re involved in athletics or strenuous activities. If you’re traveling, freeze water in reusable containers to pack in a cooler. The ice will thaw gradually, but the water will stay cooler and more refreshing during the long, hot summer days.
• When schools are not in session, children often spend more time on the computer or in front of the television. Make sure your computer has an Internet filter (available from many family-oriented websites), and that you have activated the parental controls on your television. Teach your child never to give out their name, address, or other identifying information to anyone on the Internet. Make an effort to become acquainted with the parents of your children’s friends. Don’t be afraid to ask them what their guidelines are for their child’s Internet and television use.
• Set outdoor boundaries for your child. A good way to establish these limits is to take a tour of the neighborhood with your child and determine what areas are off limits. Perhaps you live near a highway or a busy intersection that might be designated “out of bounds” because of the risks they present to your child. Often, places with water, such as creeks, streams, and ponds are also out of bounds. Entering unfamiliar homes without a parent should always be out of bounds. Discuss these boundaries with your child and make sure they understand.
• Get to know your child’s camp counselors, coaches, troop leaders, ministers, and teachers.
When you speak to the adults in your child’s life, establish yourself as your child’s parent. If time allows, consider offering to volunteer or help out in some capacity. Not only will you enjoy the time you spend engaged with your child in summer activities, but you can watch their interaction with others and monitor their activities.
As your sheriff, it is my goal to help keep our community a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. Never hesitate to call upon your Sheriff’s Office for assistance. I hope that each of you have a safe summer season.
Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw updates Towns County, Coach Jimmy Smith retires
News November 22, 2017
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw announced several community updates and plans at his monthly meeting at the Towns County Courthouse on the evening of Nov. 21, 2017, before a large turnout of citizens.
Commissioner Bradshaw explained the county is in the process of completing the 2018 budget, and it will read similar to the 2017 quota, with expectations of ultimately landing below budget.
Towns County is set to host the Bassmaster Elite Tournament in September 2018, and the event expects to add an estimated $1 million to $2 million dollars to the local economy. “This is a huge thing for our county,” Commissioner Bradshaw divulged. “Towns County will feel the effects for many years.” The Bassmaster Elite is the highest level of professional bass fishing tournaments offered.
Three detainee road crews completed upkeep on the fire tower located on High Tower, which involved pressure washing the structure and replacing the roof, among other repairs.
The fire department sign on Highway 76, one of the first signs seen when traveling west into Towns County, was replaced with a more appealing version, and the parking lot at Fire Station 1 in Hiawassee was repaved.
Towns County Daycare installed a code pad at their entrance for security purposes. Parents will receive a code, and a doorbell system was added for vendors.
The Georgia Mountain Fair “Mountain Country Christmas in Lights” will open on Thanksgiving night. Commissioner Bradshaw praised the fair’s General Manager, Hilda Thomason: “Hilda has done a great job to grow it each year.”
Approval of the 2018/2019 Federal Transit Grant Application took place. The application amounted to $96,900, half of which will be matched by Towns County. The actual amount awarded may be less as it is dependent on operational costs and based on expenditures for the year. Towns County Transit operates Monday through Friday and provides transportation for residents without vehicles.
A resolution approving the purchase of state-mandated Firefighter Cancer Insurance was read and signed by Commissioner Bradshaw. The insurance was purchased through the ACCG program. Newly elected Hiawassee City Councilwoman Amy Barrett inquired whether future coverage could be acquired locally. The Commissioner replied that the concept is worth exploring.
An application for a grant to fund the development of ADA projects at the Highway 288 Lake Chatuge Recreational property was read and signed by the Commissioner. Handicap ramps, renovation of the parking lot, accessibility for kayaks and canoes and a water trail are expected to be completed. Towns County is requesting $200,000 in funding, but less is anticipated for approval. Towns County will be reimbursed for 80 percent of the total cost and detainee labor will be used accordingly.
Towns County Courthouse
Last on the new business agenda was approval of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office policy on the implementation and regulation of credit cards for deputies to purchase fuel while transporting inmates out of county. Sheriff Chris Clinton explained the deputies were paying the cost out of pocket, then receiving county reimbursement, prior to the policy’s adoption. Each card is assigned to the transport vehicle’s VIN number. The policy will save the taxpayers the cost of federal and state taxes that were included in out-of-pocket purchases.
The final segment of the commissioner’s meeting was dedicated to the recognition of Towns County Youth Program Coach Jimmy Smith, who is retiring after 21 years of service.
“It is amazing what this man has done,” Commissioner Bradshaw said as he presented the coach with an award. “I can’t say enough. You don’t know the impact you have made on the county and kids.”
“He’s not made a dime to do this. We would not have Little League football if not for Jimmy Smith,” the Commissioner expressed, defining the retiring coach’s love and compassion for children.
Commissioner Bradshaw holds his monthly briefing on the third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the courtroom of the Towns County Courthouse. Public comments and questions are welcome as the meeting concludes. Several citizens praised the commisioner’s efforts in the community as the November session adjourned.
Featured Image: Commissioner Bradshaw presents award of recognition to Coach Smith
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Towns County Hosts Gratitude Luncheon for Veterans
Community November 10, 2017
YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. – Local veterans from each military branch, ranging in service from World War II to Desert Storm, attended an annual luncheon sponsored by Towns County at the Foster Park Recreation and Conference Center on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017.
A Towns County Fire and Rescue engine greeted guests as they arrived, the American flag flying high from the ladder’s peak. Tables were adorned in red, white and blue as patriotic music welcomed the veterans and their supporters to the festive recreation hall.
Opening words were offered by Towns County Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw. “I’m in awe to stand here before you today,” Commissioner Bradshaw conveyed in appreciation. “I thank you all so much. Freedom comes at a price. As commissioner, I will support you. Towns County will support you.”
L-R: American Legion Commander John Harkins, Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Post 23 Adjutant Mel Halfon
American Legion Commander John Harkins lead the posting of the colors by the North Georgia Honor Guard, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a powerful rendition of the National Anthem sung by Summer Rahn. An invocation blessing was recited by American Legion Chaplain Katie Harkins.
Guest speaker Senator John Wilkinson addressed the crowd: “I hope you’ll accept my sincere thank you.” Senator Wilkinson referred to the history of Veterans Day, once known as Armistice Day prior to 1954, and made mention of the cessation of hostilities during World War I in 1918 on “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.”
Newly elected Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales extended words of gratitude to the group of veterans. “You are the true heroes of our nation. Your sacrifices are huge. I offer a humble thank you for your service,” Mayor Ordiales said.
Last to speak was Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton. “I’m truly honored to stand here today. I don’t feel worthy to stand before you. I thank God we live in a place where our officials and community truly honor our veterans,” Clinton said. Sheriff Clinton acknowledged his grandfather and hero, Mr. Harold Nicholson, a World War II serviceman who attended the event.
L-R: Sylvia Kelly, Errol Cone, Bob Hass, Ashford Todd and Brandy Creel of VFW Post 7807
A buffet lunch was served by members of the community, catered by Happy Hawg restaurant, while a military tribute presentation played on a large screen hung in the dining hall.
Fetch Your News (FYN) had the honor of meeting several local heroes and listening to the stories they shared.
Retired Naval Chief Petty Officer Clarence “Bud” Johnson, who served “36 years, four months, and four days,” said he enlisted at the age of 17. “I got my feet wet early, gave my life to Jesus Christ and that’s why I’m here, for We, the People. May God bless America,” Mr. Johnson affirmed, asking FYN to quote his sentiment.
Towns County’s oldest veteran, Mr. Frontz Goring, 96, a serviceman during World War II in the 2nd Air Force Training Command Division, expressed, “The Lord has blessed and saved me.” Mr. Goring recalled rendering assistance to a stranger choking on a piece of candy while living in Florida in 1975. “I had just watched a program on how to perform the Heimlich Maneuver, just before it happened. I know God put me in the right place at the right time to save the lady’s life. God is good.”
Towns County’s oldest Veteran, Mr. Frontz Goring, USAF, WW2
Friends reunited and new bonds were formed while memories of old and discussions of current events echoed throughout the hall.
“I’m privileged to host this event for our veterans,” Commissioner Bradshaw told FYN as the luncheon came to a close. “They served us and I’m deeply honored to serve them.”
A Veterans Day ceremony will take place on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the War Memorial, adjacent to the Towns County School, on Highway 76 East in Hiawassee.
VFW Adjutant Ashford “Ash” Todd invites the community to Post 7807, located at 1329 Sunnyside Road for a hot dog lunch following the ceremony.
Featured Image: Retired Naval Veteran Clarence “Bud” Johnson
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Towns County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Two on Drug Charges
News October 30, 2017
YOUNG HARRIS, GA – On October 24, 2017, deputies with the Towns County Sheriff’s Office arrested two suspects on separate incidents charging them with drug offenses.
Denny Mark Silvers
Deputies arrested Denny Mark Silvers, age 52, of Hiawassee, Georgia. He was taken into custody in the vicinity the 1400 block of Highway 66 in Young Harris, Georgia. Denny Mark Silvers was arrested and charged with 1 Count of V.G.C.S.A. Possession of a Schedule IV drug, 1 Count of V.G.C.S.A. Possession of a Schedule II drugs (Methamphetamine), 1 Count of Prescription Drugs Not In Original Container, and I Count of Drug Related Objects.
Shaun Keith Ewing
Deputies arrested the second suspect, Shaun Keith Ewing, age 35, of Young Harris, Georgia at a location off Upper Bell Creek Road in Hiawassee, Georgia. Ewing was charged with 1 Count of V.G.C.S.A. Possession of Less Than 1 Oz. of Marijuana.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
TCSO Citizen Law Enforcement Academy VII begins
News July 27, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – The seventh session of the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA), sponsored by the Towns County Sheriff’s Office, began on Tuesday, July 25, at McConnell Baptist Church on Main Street in Hiawassee. CLEA is a ten week course designed to familiarize the community with the operations of the Sheriff’s Office.
The meeting began with opening remarks by the Lead Pastor of McConnell Baptist, Steven Taylor, who asked to address the group. “We’re grateful for the Sheriff’s Office and all they do. We wanted to be a part of it. We look forward to serving again in the future.”
The initial class focused on Sheriff Chris Clinton’s presentation on the history of the Office of the Sheriff. “It’s the oldest elected office of any kind.”, the Sheriff told the participants. Clinton covered the full scope of the position’s antiquity which included knowledge of 1215 AD, the year the people rose against the dictatorial King John of England. He explained how the Sheriff stood up for the citizens.
“I answer to the people.”, the Sheriff expressed. “I work for you.”
Sheriff Clinton went on to provide insight on the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. He cited issues that led to their establishment and how they still apply today. “The Founders knew it was the people themselves who mattered…We, the people, are the kings in America.”
Colonel Terry Conner, Captain Jim Coach, and Lieutenant Aaron Deyton of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office attended Tuesday’s meeting. David Marrella, a CLEA graduate, was on hand to assist the new students.
CLEA meets weekly until graduation commences on September 26. Classes require admission through the Towns County Sheriff’s Office. Alumni are permitted to volunteer their time for suitable tasks such as administrative duties upon completion of the 20 hour course. This in turn lowers the cost of operation for county’s taxpayers.
The next session is expected to begin in late fall. Applications are available by contacting the Towns County Sheriff’s Office at 706.896.4444
Follow Fetch Your News for future updates on this community program.
Sheriff Chris Clinton, Towns County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Re-elected to Georgia Sheriff’s Association’s Board of Directors
Announcements August 8, 2016
Pictured above L-R:Terry Norris, Executive Director, Georgia Sheriffs’ Association; Sheriff Chris Clinton; Lumpkin County Sheriff and president of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, Stacy Jarrard.
Suspect Flees Police – Leaves Vehicle Behind
News March 3, 2016
The Towns County Sheriff, Chris Clinton sends a message to the individual fleeing from North Carolina authorities early Thursday morning, March 3rd 2016.
“You left in a rush and may have forgotten where you parked your truck. No problem. I have it and will keep it safe for you. Feel free to come by the office and claim it anytime.”
Vehicle pictured below:
If you have information or know who was the driver of this vehicle please contact authorities.
Towns County ~ From the Sheriff’s Desk
Police & Government January 18, 2016
From the Sheriff’s Desk
This week I would like to tell you about some of the accomplishments for the year 2015. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but I wanted to cover a few of the highlights.
During 2015, we continued to offer the Citizen Law Enforcement academy (CLEA), a 10-week course, graduating two additional classes. Our CLEA alumni are now approximately 90 members strong and many of those are active volunteers for the sheriff’s office. In 2015, CLEA alumni worked a total of 1,686 hours. To put those hours into perspective, that is equivalent to a savings of over $34,000 in overtime. Volunteers assisted with the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Annual Benefit Trap Shoot, which raised approximately $9,000 for Georgia’s most at risk children. They provided security for both the Summer and Fall sessions of the Georgia Mountain Fair. Additionally, members provided security for the concerts at the fairgrounds, as well as volunteered for the Towns County Business Showcase Event, and provided security for the Moonshine Cruz-In event at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Several CLEA members volunteered for additional training and handled office administrative duties at the courthouse and the Towns County Detention Center. Volunteers also provided assistance with ongoing Citizen Law Enforcement Academies and in helping with the Sheriff’s Christmas Parade and Empty Stocking Fund. We look forward to implementing additional volunteer opportunities in 2016. Thank you, CLEA volunteers!
As in each previous year of this administration, the Sheriff’s Office operated within the budget and identified new ways of providing more for less. These savings strategies allowed for the purchase of four additional low-mileage patrol vehicles, including two Ford Crown Victorias, a Chevrolet Impala, and a Chevrolet Caprice. All the vehicles were used, but in great condition with low mileage. One of the vehicles purchased only had 8,000 miles on it, one had 15,000 miles, one had 22,000 miles, and the last one just turned 30,000 miles. In purchasing the used vehicles with low mileage, the sheriff’s office is able to replace the higher mileage fleet vehicles. With an additional purchase at the start of January, all front line patrol vehicles are now under 100,000 miles.
Through a combination of budget savings and a donation from a homeowners association, we were able to purchase body cameras for each deputy. These body cameras have already proven to be beneficial in making criminal cases. They serve to protect the public as well as the deputies and are a great benefit to the community.
The Towns County community has supported the sheriff’s office in providing equipment to keep our officers safe. As with the previously mentioned body cameras, CLEA alumni and citizens donated two tactical patrol rifles, as well as providing upgrades for two additional patrol rifles.
In 2015, Towns County Sheriff’s Office was again awarded state certification status. Originally awarded in 2012, Towns County Sheriff’s Office is only one of 20 of Georgia’s 159 sheriff’s offices to achieve and maintain state certification.
In 2015, we were awarded a 2012 enclosed trailer which was used in a burglary in Towns County. Due to the fact that it was being used for a criminal enterprise, the sheriff’s office filed seizure paper work though the Enotah District Attorney’s Office. The trailer has been converted to a mobile command post. The command post will be used to respond to incidents reported in Towns County as needed.
These are a few of the accomplishments from 2015. I am very thankful for the opportunity to serve this community and want to say a special thank you to our staff and our volunteers for their dedication to the citizens of Towns County.