Towns County Sheriff's Office Highlights Community Partnerships, Training, and Leadership Transitions During National Police Week

HIAWASSEE, Ga. — The Towns County Sheriff’s Office marked National Police Week by emphasizing ongoing growth, regional collaboration, and investments in the future of public safety, while announcing key leadership changes and new community initiatives.

In a statement, Sheriff Coleman and agency leadership expressed sincere gratitude to Towns County citizens and community partners for their steadfast support of the men and women who serve the community daily.

Community Support and Beautification

The Sheriff’s Office received a generous donation of mulch from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Assistant Director of Operations David Ellis, and the EMC team. The donation will support improvements and beautification efforts at the Sheriff’s Office facility. Officials noted that such contributions highlight the strong partnerships between local agencies, organizations, and residents.

Training and Regional Cooperation

Sheriff Coleman and agency members attended training at Georgia State Patrol Headquarters focused on acquiring critical public safety equipment. Additionally, the Sheriff’s Office hosted a regional Law Enforcement Risk Management Program in partnership with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG). Representatives from Rabun, White, and Union counties participated in discussions on operational best practices, leadership, and liability reduction. The agency thanked Director Marty Roberts for providing classroom space at the 911 Center.

Community and Tourism Engagement

The Sheriff’s Office participated in an event hosted by the Northeast Georgia Travel Association at Heritage Hall and the Towns County Fairgrounds. The gathering underscored the vital role of tourism, regional partnerships, and economic development across Northeast Georgia.

New Cadet Program for Future Leaders

Sheriff Coleman announced the upcoming launch of a Sheriff’s Office Cadet Program designed for local high school students interested in leadership, service, and careers in law enforcement and public safety. Full program details are expected to be released next week.

Leadership Transition

The agency also confirmed an upcoming leadership change. Chief Deputy Shawn Wilson’s final day with the Towns County Sheriff’s Office will be next Friday. What began as a planned 90-day commitment extended to approximately 180 days to support operational stability, restructuring, and transition efforts.

Wilson will assume a new role as Senior Law Enforcement Risk Consultant with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG), where he will continue assisting law enforcement agencies statewide. Sheriff Coleman thanked Wilson for his service and wished him success in his new position.

New Leadership Appointments

To ensure continuity, Captain Billy Brackett will be promoted to Chief Deputy. Brackett brings nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, including extensive command-level leadership, and is well-respected across the agency and community.

The Sheriff’s Office also welcomed Eric Woods back as Captain of Patrol Operations. Woods returns with substantial law enforcement experience, proven leadership, and a strong reputation throughout Northeast Georgia, strengthening the Patrol Division and overall leadership team.

The Towns County Sheriff’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, service, ongoing training, leadership development, and community partnerships as it builds for the future of public safety in the county.