Thursday, September 28, 2017

Additional Homicide Arrest


Around 5:30 am., Wednesday, September 27, 2017, the New York / New Jersey U.S. Marshal Regional Task Force apprehended murder suspect Akilee Zakee Wilson age: 17. The individual is wanted in connected with a double homicide that occurred on Crisler Street here in Canton during the late evening hours of June 25, 2017. The task force located Wilson in a Staten Island Housing Development and contacted Canton Police Detectives who will be working with the Cherokee County D.A.’s Office and New York authorities to extradite Wilson back to Georgia to face his charges.

Akilee Zakee Wilson pictured below:

Charges: Felony Murder (2 counts) and Aggravated Assault (2 counts);



The investigation is on-going and the Police Department continues to ask anyone who knows anything about the double homicide to call 911 or contact the agency main number at 770-720-4883.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Narcotics Arrest


On Thursday, September 21, 2017, just after 1:30 pm., Canton Police Sgt. Ben Gilleland was patrolling the area of Riverstone Parkway when he observed a vehicle driving in an erratic manner. The driver of the vehicle drove through the crowded intersection at the time the light was red, sped up and recklessly turned onto the entrance ramp to I-575 Southbound nearly striking another motorist. The supervisor initiated the Patrol unit’s blue lights in an effort to catch up and stop the vehicle but the driver increased speed and exited onto exit # 19 (Cumming Highway).

Sgt. Gilleland lost sight of the vehicle but a motorist stopped and pointed that the car had entered back onto the entrance ramp to I-575 Southbound. As the Sergeant searched, he located the abandoned vehicle on the entrance ramp with the doors open and motor running as if the driver had fled the scene. The driver did flee but as he ran up a steep hill near the interstate ramp, he slipped and rolled back down the hill where Sgt. Gilleland was waiting. He immediately took the individual, Mr. Devantee Rondell Hampton, into custody.

At that time, another citizen who witnessed the event called 911 to report the driver of the reckless vehicle threw a white in color bag out of the window on I-575 Southbound near the Etowah River Bridge. Officers were able to recover the grocery bag and another bag, which contained approximately 2.5 ounces of suspected Marijuana along with a small amount of U.S. Currency. Further investigation revealed Mr. Hampton was wanted for an outstanding warrant out of Cherokee County.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “I truly appreciate the dedicated work of Sgt. Gilleland and we are extremely grateful for the assistance and support of our citizens during this incident. This is what happens when Law Enforcement and Citizens partner together to remove this type of criminal element from off the streets in our Community.”


Suspect:

Devantee Rondell Hampton age: 24 of Canton, GA.

Charges:
Felony Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana





Monday, September 25, 2017

Armed Robbery Investigation


On Thursday, September 21, 2017, just before 11:30 pm., Officers were dispatched to the report of an Armed Robbery at 12 Jefferson Circle. A description of the suspect vehicle (a red in color Dodge Dart) was given by the victim and broadcast to units as they responded. Officers quickly spotted the vehicle on Main Street as it neared Interstate 575, initiated a traffic stop and took numerous individuals that were occupying the car into custody. Officers, along with Police Detectives, arrived at the Housing Authority unit on Jefferson Circle, cordoned off the crime scene, collected additional statements and secured a search warrant for the residence.

After further investigation, Detectives were able to locate the firearm used in the crime, a felony amount of drugs. Detectives determined that the complainant in the case was set up by the suspects to meet him at the vacant residence in order to forcibly rob him of the cash and narcotics he was bringing to the meet location. Additionally, Detectives discovered none of the individuals involved lived on Jefferson Circle or in the adjoining neighborhood. The complainant who called 911 and the persons who were located in the vehicle are all being charged as a result of this investigation.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell added, "I am proud of the quick work of our Officers and Detectives who were able to bring a safe resolution to this incident and remove these individuals off the streets in our community."


Suspects and Charges:

William Harris - 19 YOA from Acworth, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

Shamer Jones - 19 YOA from Canton, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

Marissa Lemieux - 18 YOA from Jasper, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

Brittany McGuire - 19 YOA from Jasper, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

Deshaun Tiller - 18 YOA from Canton, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

Nicole Clary - 18 YOA from Jasper, GA: Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;


Charges will be forthcoming on victim Shaud Pinzon, 20 YOA Duluth, GA: Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute;

This is an active investigation with the potential of additional charges in this case.


                                   Canton Police Department

Kidnapping Investigation


Just after midnight on Sunday, September 24, 2017, Officers were dispatched to an address on John T. Pettit Street in Canton reference to the report of a Kidnapping. Upon officers’ arrival, the caller advised she went to the local Fair with her friend around 10:30 pm. but did not leave with her. The complainant told Officers that later she received a call from her friend advising that an ex-boyfriend, who was intoxicated, had taken her and she needed to call the Police. The on-scene Supervisor immediately called the victim's cell phone and obtained an open line with her but could only hear music.

The call was disconnected but the female began texting the Corporal and family members. Officers then requested a "Ping" - a GPS location of the victim's cell phone. At that time, the kidnapped female began texting her location to the police Supervisor. As additional information became available, it appeared the victim and suspect were somewhere near Chattanooga, TN close to Interstate 75 and that the two may be headed to an unknown location in Kentucky. Based on the rapidly evolving information that was coming in, it was learned the victim and suspect were at a Flying J gas station in Chattanooga. Upon contacting the station, a clerk immediately confirmed there was a Hispanic male and female occupying a grey Nissan Altima in the parking lot of the business.

At that time, members of the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) converged on the location, quickly apprehended the suspect and located the victim who is currently safe. Police Detectives will be working with Tennessee authorities to reconnect the victim back with her family in Canton and working with the Cherokee County District Attorney's Office as it relates to the extradition of the suspect back to Georgia to face his charges in this case.

Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell stated, "We are very thankful the victim was safely located before she was seriously injured or suffered a worse fate and that the suspect was apprehended. I am very proud of the quick work of our determined Officers, appreciative of the hard work of the Cherokee Emergency Dispatch Operators and extremely grateful for the vigilant assistance by our fellow Law Enforcement professionals from the Tennessee Highway Patrol."

Chief Mitchell added, “It is extremely important to recognize the fact the victim in this case never gave up and had a strong will to survive this volatile situation which played a key role in finding her and arresting the suspect.”


Suspect:

Derbi Tito Morales-Reynoso - Age: 24 of Canton, Ga. and known to frequent Covington, Kentucky.

Charges: Kidnapping with bodily injury with additional charges pending.

Also, has been charged with Kidnapping, DUI and Driving While Suspended by the State of Tennessee.


Victim: 

Hispanic Female - Age: 24 of Canton, Ga - name withheld as the case is still under investigation.



                                             Canton Police Department

Friday, September 22, 2017

Swearing-In Ceremony


Three new recruits were sworn in to the Canton Police Department this afternoon. During the ceremony, which was held at Canton City Hall, three (3) Canton Police Officers were sworn in by Judge Caudill and each given their new badge. Family, friends and other member of the Canton Police force were in attendance to show their support for the new Officers.

Officers Taina Cruz, Robert Marinaccio and Alexzander Crawford each successfully completed the Officer training course at Cherokee County GPSTC Training facility. Officer Cruz was awarded the "Class Flag" from the GPSTC Training facility for being one of the best recruits in the class. 

Officer Marinaccio came to the department with over thirty (30) years of policing experience while Officer Crawford previously worked in corrections. Officer Cruz previously trained to work with Sandy Springs Police.











Group Picture (Left to Right): Judge Caudill, Officer Sweat, Capt. Tucker, Capt. Turner, Deputy Chief Merrifield, Officer Marinaccio, Officer Cruz, Officer Crawford, Lt. Lummus, Chief Mitchell and Sgt. Hoffman. 



Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Coffee with a Cop


The Police Department’s next Coffee with a Cop community event will be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 from 9:00 - 11:00 am., at the Starbucks located at 1353 Riverstone Parkway #110, Canton, GA. This on-going outreach allows Officers and citizens to connect, engage, problem solve and build important trusting relationships which are vital to improving the quality of life for everyone in the community.

Coffee with a Cop is one of the most important monthly activities the department is  involved in. The "Coffee with a Cop" program is essential for our department to continue connecting with the citizens we serve. We would like to thank Starbucks and their management team for inviting our department to be a part of such an important community event.






                                                           

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

Missing/Endangered Adult Male Located


Update: September 19,2017

Mr. Williams was located this afternoon by Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies and is safe. We would like to thank the Cherokee Sheriff's Office for their assistance.

                       Please help us locate Kenneth Williams.  Williams was last seen near the Chevron (4129 Marietta Hwy, Canton, GA.  30114) at around 10:00 PM, Monday, September 18, 2017.  He was dropped off at the Chevron by a friend, who stated Williams had said that he may attempt to harm himself.

Canton Officers, Detectives and other agencies have been made aware and are attempting to locate Mr. Williams. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Williams, please call 911.

Williams, Kenneth
37 yrs. Old
White male, red hair and green eyes
Last seen wearing: Orange hat, white tank top, light colored shorts
Home:  Ellijay, Ga




Thursday, September 14, 2017

Runaway/Missing Teen Found

Update September 14, 2017

Police in Idaho Springs, Colorado received a 911 call from a concerned citizen who had seen Mayci's information on a "Missing Person" post and recognized the vehicle that Mayci was driving. Idaho Springs Police were then able to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle and positively identified Mayci Olschewske as the driver. Mayci is safe and the family has been notified.

We would like to thank all agencies involved and the public for their assistance in finding Ms. Olschewske.


.............................................................................................


Previous Post - September 7, 2017

Missing / Runaway Teen Investigation – Update


Police Detectives continue to actively investigate the whereabouts of Mayci Olschewske who left her residence on August 31, 2017. Detectives have maintained daily communication with the Olschewke family in order to give them regular updates on leads in this case.

Facts surrounding this investigation:

 Mayci has been entered as a runaway on the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) system. In addition, a description of her vehicle has also been listed

 Mayci is listed as missing with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

 She, along with her vehicle, are listed on the National License Plate Reader (LPR) data base, which means any Law Enforcement Agency with an LPR, will receive an immediate notification if they have contact with the 2002 Hyundai Santa-Fe.

 Her cell phone is being checked daily for activity and, if turned on, can be pinged for a location.

 Her social media pages are being checked daily for activity.

 Detectives are working to secure all cell phone and social media data that occurred before she left her residence last Thursday.

 We have been in contact with the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) and the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance / resources to assist in locating Mayci.

 Numerous surveillance videos (gas station, local ATM .etc,) have been collected and viewed which show her by herself during the same time period soon after she left her residence on August 31, 2017.

 Has Mayci runaway before? Yes

 To this point, no phone or credit cards, other than the debit card used to withdraw money at a locate ATM on the morning Mayci left, have been used that are associated with the runaway teen.

 We have been in contact with Mayci’s friends in order to obtain important information about what she may have relayed to them before she left home and any facts they have that will help us locate her.

 Our Missing / Runway bulletin has been shared over 6,500 times on social media and also has thousands of shares on other websites.

 Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time as we continue to work hard to locate Mayci Olschewske.

Again, the Police Department asks anyone who knows anything about this case or the whereabouts of Ms. Mayci Olschewske to call 911, the agency main number at 770-720-4883 or e-mail us at pdinfo@cantonga.gov.

This is an on-going investigation and more information / updates will be released when available.


Pictures are from the day she was last seen




08/31/2017 Publix outside ATM, 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114



08/31/2017 Murphy Express gas station 1556 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114



08/31/2017 Publix outside ATM, 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114



Update 9/5/2017:

Canton Detectives are still actively looking to locate Mayci Olschewske. Detectives are thankful for the leads that have come in via social media and Ms. Olschewske's family and are reviewing multiple surveillance videos from different locations.

No phone or credit cards have been used that are associated with Ms. Olschewske from when she was last seen. Detectives are aware that she does have ties to Florida and are following those leads.

Mayci Olschewske W/F

Hgt: 5'05

Wgt: 133

Eyes: Green

Hair: Blonde

.........................................................


August 31, 2017:

Can you help us locate this individual?

The pictured female is 16-year-old Mayci Olschewske who was last seen on August 31, 2017 at her residence in Canton. Mayci is believed to be driving her White 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe (WPQ909) that has some front-end damage. Mayci may be heading to Paulding County, Georgia.

If you see Mayci or her vehicle please contact 911. If you have any information as to Mayci’s whereabouts, contact Detective Tom Priest at the Canton Police Department.

Phone: 770 720-4883
E-mai:ltom.priest@cantonga.gov







Sunday, September 10, 2017

Civilian Response to Active Shooter Cancelled


Due to the potential of severe weather, the Active Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) training has been cancelled.  The event will be rescheduled at a later time.

CANCELED...
The Canton Police Department in partnership with the First Baptist Church of Canton will be hosting a community training program for Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE). This course is designed and built on the Avoid, Deny, Defend strategy that was developed by the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center located at Texas State University. Agency instructors will be teaching this course that is designed to provide strategies, guidance and a proven plan for surviving an active shooter event.

This extremely important program is open to all citizens and will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 from 6:00—7:30 pm., at the First Baptist Church of Canton located at 1 Mission Point, Canton Ga. 30114. Seating will be at a premium and on a first come - first serve basis. Children are welcome to attend but parental guidance is strongly recommended as some of the presented material will contain scenes that are sensitive to some viewers.

Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell stated, “Throughout this year, we have held CRASE events around our City and the program has been a huge success. Close to a thousand citizens previously attended the life saving training that was very well received. I strongly believe this interaction is another avenue where we can establish long lasting relationships and trust with our community. Additionally, this also educates our community on the fact that all law enforcement in Cherokee County is educating our citizens on how to respond and react to an Active Shooter incident.”

Chief Mitchell added, “I would like to thank the First Baptist Church for working with us to host such an important community event.”    

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Runaway/Missing Teen

Missing / Runaway Teen Investigation – Update 

Police Detectives continue to actively investigate the whereabouts of Mayci Olschewske who left her residence on August 31, 2017.  Detectives have maintained daily communication with the Olschewke family in order to give them regular updates on leads in this case.  

Facts surrounding this investigation:

Mayci has been entered as a runaway on the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) system. In addition, a description of her vehicle has also been listed
Mayci is listed as missing with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
She, along with her vehicle, are listed on the National License Plate Reader (LPR) data base, which means any Law Enforcement Agency with an LPR, will receive an immediate notification if they have contact with the 2002 Hyundai Santa-Fe.
Her cell phone is being checked daily for activity and, if turned on, can be pinged for a location.
Her social media pages are being checked daily for activity.
Detectives are working to secure all cell phone and social media data that occurred before she left her residence last Thursday.  
We have been in contact with the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) and the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance / resources to assist in locating Mayci.  
Numerous surveillance videos (gas station, local ATM .etc,) have been collected and viewed which show her by herself during the same time period soon after she left her residence on August 31, 2017.  
Has Mayci runaway before? Yes
To this point, no phone or credit cards, other than the debit card used to withdraw money at a locate ATM on the morning Mayci left, have been used that are associated with the runaway teen.
We have been in contact with Mayci’s friends in order to obtain important information about what she may have relayed to them before she left home and any facts they have that will help us locate her.  
Our Missing / Runway bulletin has been shared over 6,500 times on social media and also has thousands of shares on other websites.
Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time as we continue to work hard to locate Mayci Olschewske.      

Again, the Police Department asks anyone who knows anything about this case or the whereabouts of Ms. Mayci Olschewske to call 911, the agency main number at 770-720-4883 or e-mail us at pdinfo@cantonga.gov.

This is an on-going investigation and more information / updates will be released when available.

Pictures are from the day she was last seen:


08/31/2017 Publix outside ATM, 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114

08/31/2017 Murphy Express gas station 1556 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114

08/31/2017 Publix outside ATM, 1451 Riverstone Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114



Update 9/5/2017:

Canton Detectives are still actively looking to locate Mayci Olschewske.  Detectives are thankful for the leads that have come in via social media and Ms. Olschewske's family and are reviewing multiple surveillance videos from different locations.  

No phone or credit cards have been used that are associated with Ms. Olschewske from when she was last seen.  Detectives are aware that she does have ties to Florida and are following those leads.


Mayci Olschewske W/F 
Hgt: 5'05
Wgt: 133
Eyes: Green
Hair: Blonde 

                                   .........................................................

August 31, 2017:
Can you help us locate this individual?

The pictured female is 16-year-old Mayci Olschewske who was last seen on August 31, 2017 at her residence in Canton. Mayci is believed to be driving her White 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe (WPQ909) that has some front-end damage. Mayci may be heading to Paulding County, Georgia. 

If you see Mayci or her vehicle please contact 911. If you have any information as to Mayci’s whereabouts, contact Detective Tom Priest at the Canton Police Department.

Phone: 770 720-4883
E-mai:ltom.priest@cantonga.gov



Friday, September 1, 2017

Community Event & Walk of Healing / Unity



On Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 11:30 – 1:30 pm., the Canton Police Department, in partnership with the Canton Housing Authority, Open Door Church, Iglesia Pentecostes el Faro, Zion Baptist Church, St. Paul AME, Mt. Calvary Church and City of Covenant Church will host a Community Cookout and Walk of Healing / Unity.  The event will be located in the parking lot of Zion Baptist Church and St. Paul AME at 400 Crisler Street, Canton, GA 30114. 

Officers and members of our Churches will be grilling hot dogs and providing chips and drinks for those in attendance. This simple setting will be an important time of open dialogue and conversation for Officers and Citizens to learn more about each other, build trusting relationships and a time to discuss any needs in the Community / Police Department. The overall goal of this event will be to show we are united as one (1) Community together to improve the quality of life for everyone and we will not tolerate violence or crime in our City.   
   
Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “Over the past several years, our community outreach programs have strengthened the vital trust and relationships needed between our department and those we serve every day.  However, we have more work to do. Working together as one (1) united Community, our commitment and resolve will pay very important dividends now and in the future. This unified partnership will allow us to continue to effectively communicate, maintain transparency, address criminal activity and public concerns. We are excited about this event and look forward to seeing everyone there.”
Chief Mitchell added, “I would like to thank the dedicated Pastors and Reverends of each of our churches for their partnership and collaborative work on this Community Project.”