Towns County Sheriff’s Office Highlights Agency Improvements and Community Partnerships

Staff Report

Mountain Buzz

The Towns County Sheriff’s Office continued its commitment to progress and professionalism last week, announcing a series of initiatives designed to strengthen internal standards, reinforce accountability, and better serve the residents of Towns County.

One of the most significant updates came with the modernization of the agency’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy. The new structure includes both pre-employment and random testing for every employee—from new hires to the Sheriff. According to the agency, the policy is designed to ensure that all personnel meet the high expectations of the community while promoting a culture of accountability and fitness for duty.

In addition to the testing policy, the Sheriff’s Office distributed updated agency expectations to all personnel. Leadership says that establishing clear and consistent standards will help reinforce professionalism, discipline, and integrity across every division of the department.

The agency also continued its progress toward meeting the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association’s “Assumption of Office” recommendations. These standards focus on enhancing internal structure, documentation, and operational readiness, all of which contribute to improved efficiency and service delivery.

Strengthening relationships beyond the agency remained a key focus as well. The Sheriff’s Office expanded cooperation with both local and regional public safety partners and community organizations. Joint training efforts, leaders say, not only enhance coordination during emergency response but also improve public safety across the wider region.

One notable training initiative from last week included a session on U.S. Constitutional Amendments and Ethics, completed in partnership with the Hiawassee Police Department. The joint training ensures both departments remain aligned in upholding the highest legal and ethical standards while serving the community.

The Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the support of Towns County residents as efforts to elevate service and professionalism continue.