New Officer to Serve the Community

Canton Police held a swearing-in ceremony for it's newest Officer, John Van Kints. He was sworn into the department by Judge Darrell Caudill on Friday, December 21, 2018, at the Canton Municipal Court Facility. Family, friends and other members of the Canton Police staff were in attendance to show their support. The newest addition to the department is a recent graduate of GPSTC - Pickens Law Enforcement Academy.

How Did It Get Stolen?

The Canton Police Department (CPD) is well aware most incidents of property damage, theft from sheds/garages, theft from vehicles, bicycles thefts and other property crime happen overnight under the cover of darkness.

In many cases, vehicles, sheds, and garages are left unlocked by the owners. Suspects try doors until they find one unlocked and then look through the vehicle, shed or garage to take any valuables they locate as a quick crime of opportunity.

On Wednesday, December 5, 2018, the CPD will begin the “It’s 9 O’clock - LOCK IT UP” campaign. At 9 pm each night, a message will go out on the Police Department’s Instagram and Facebook accounts reminding all our followers that “It’s 9 O’clock – LOCK IT UP”. When you get the message, it is a perfect time to ensure your shed and garage doors are locked and to click that automatic door lock on your vehicles. Check to make sure your bikes are locked in the garage, shed, or are padlocked to an immovable object. Also, look around your yard and see if there is anything there that a thief may want.

If you LOCK IT UP there is a much better chance it will not be stolen.

We strongly believe this initiative is another excellent avenue to continue to improve our communication, partnership and trust with those we serve. As always, thank you for your support as we all work together to continue to improve the Quality of Life in our great city.

Attitude of Service, Mindset of Community and Heart of Protection!

Canton Police Hosting "Shop with a Cop"

The Canton Police Department would like to announce it will be hosting its annual “Shop with a Cop” on Thursday, December 13, 2018, at 5:45 pm. and is currently accepting applications and referrals from local schools. This annual event will take place at the Target store, located at 2022 Cumming Hwy, Canton, GA. 

Canton Officers and Police Explorers will be giving gifts to children who would not ordinarily be receiving much if anything this year. Officers will be helping approximately 20 families in need this Christmas season. The Police Department has received donations from local business and organizations to help support this cause and Officers were able to participate in "No Shave and Paint your Nails November and December" which raised approximately $1,200.00 for this vital program.

The Canton Police Department strongly believes in a “Mindset of community, Attitude of Service and Heart of Protection. Officers know their purpose is to make a difference in the lives of our children and families in our city and the surrounding communities. The goal of Shop with a Cop is to not only financially help families but to build trust and a positive relationship to let them know they have someone to turn to when faced with a potential crisis. 

Shop with a Cop application form: https://goo.gl/forms/SQ7DIwBXqyepmqEd2

Canton Police to Hold Facebook Live Town Hall Meeting

In efforts to reach more community members, Mark J. Mitchell, Canton Police Chief, and Deputy Chief Steve Merrifield will be hosting a town hall-style Facebook Live meeting. The event will begin at 7:00 p.m. and continue for approximately an hour, on Monday, November 26, 2018. The live stream will be available on the Canton Police’s Facebook page and will be archived for viewing after the broadcast is over.

 

Viewers of the event can post questions in advance by commenting on this Facebook event page or by texting questions to (470) 239-0008.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell adds, “We are always researching new, innovative and unique avenues to engage, connect and continue to build trust with those we serve. We believe this live event will give our citizens another transparent way to learn about their department and an opportunity to ask questions in order for us to help solve problems in our community.”

Detectives Solve Graffiti Incident

At approximately 8:43 am., Monday, October 22, 2018, Officers responded to the report of a business wall being spray painted (tagged) at 159 Railroad Street.  Police Detectives began working the case and discovered through video surveillance, the crime occurred on Sunday, October 21, 2018, just before 1:00 am.  The video revealed three (3) what appeared to be Hispanic males in an older model Lincoln Town-Car commit the trespassing act with what is believed to be Gang Graffiti.

Over the past several weeks, Detectives had the incident disseminated on the department’s social media platform, conducted interviews and worked with the Cartersville Police Department because persons responsible were known to their department and thought to live in that area.  After further keen investigative work, Detectives discovered the three (3) suspects are members of the Cartersville Vatos Locos (CVL) gang and tagged the wall because they had issues with individuals here in Canton.     

On Wednesday, November 7, 2018, Detectives secured arrest warrants for Luis Alberto Rocha age 24 of Cartersville, GA, Juan Estaban Gallegos age 24 of Cartersville, GA and Coty Lance Gallegos age 31 of Kingston, GA., all charged with Criminal Trespass and violation of the Georgia Criminal Street Gang Act.  At the time of this press release, Juan Gallegos is in custody and Detectives with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) are searching for the other two (2) individuals.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell added, “Our Detectives dedicated many hours to solve this case.  As you can see, these offenders are not from our city and I urge those who live here that were the subject of their tagging to take heed of how hard our Officers and our law enforcement partners work to ensure individuals who commit these crimes will be sought out, arrested and charged accordingly.”

Chief Mitchell continued and said, “We want to thank the Cartersville Police Department, Kingston Police Department and the FBI for their vital assistance with this criminal activity.

Canton Police Receive Agency of the Year Award

The Canton Police Department is pleased to announce it has been awarded the Agency of the Year from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) for the Appalachian Trail Traffic Enforcement Network (ATTEN) district in Georgia.

The award was presented on Thursday, November 8, 2018, at the annual QUAD meeting in Gainesville, GA.

The agency would like to thank Sgt. Delman, Officer Molasso, Lt. Baldwin and Captain Turner for their management of the program and involvement with the district.

For more information on GOHS and its highway safety programs, visit www.gahighwaysafety.org.

Police search for suspect in armed robbery at service station

 The Canton Police are searching for a suspect who committed an armed robbery at a convenience store in Canton, late Monday night after the individual took cash and fled.

Canton Officers responded to a panic alarm around 11:00 pm on Monday, October 22, 2018, at the Chevron service station located at 370 Marietta Rd.

An employee at the Chevron told police they were confronted by a male armed with a gun who demanded money.  The suspect jumped the counter and entered a back room.  After leaving the back room with an undermined amount of cash, he exited the front entrance and fled on foot down Marietta Road.  Officers arrived and searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. 

The suspect is described as a Hispanic or possible white male with a slim build.  He spoke in English and Spanish and had a tattoo on his left forearm.

Canton Detectives are reviewing video surveillance from the service station and are asking anyone with information about the robbery or who might have seen something suspicious to please call 911.

Entering Auto Suspect Arrested

Since the spring of this year, Police Detectives have been investigating multiple cases of Entering Auto incidents involving new vehicles located at the Shottenkirk Dodge dealership here in our city.  Recently, a Detective was able to generate a lead while researching several web-based sale sites and after further inquiry, the evidence collected allowed for the securing of a search warrant. 

Today at approximately 5:00 am, our Detectives along with Investigators from the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, Detectives from the Cartersville Police Department and agents with the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS) executed the search warrant at 318 Quiet Hill Lane, Woodstock, GA.  After the search warrant was served, Detectives conducted interviews, collected numerous pieces of evidence directly linked to the crimes and located narcotics to include marijuana, THC and cocaine. 

As a result of the investigation, a Mr. Chad Lindsey Abell age: 46 of Woodstock was arrested for twenty-three (23) counts of Entering Auto from our office and additional counts of Entering Auto by the Cartersville Police Department and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office.  In addition, as a result of the search warrant, a Mr. Cole Tyler Abell age: 24 of Woodstock was arrested for Possession of Marijuana less than an ounce, Possession of THC and Possession of Cocaine.         

Chief Mark J. Mitchell added, “I commend our hard-working Detectives for their commitment and diligence with this long investigation.  We are very grateful for these arrests and a safe and successful resolution was brought to these cases.  Effort like this greatly strengthens the quality of life for our citizens and businesses we serve. 

Chief Mitchell continued and said, “We want to thank the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, CMANS and the Cartersville Police Department for their vital assistance with this criminal activity.    

Note:  This is an on-going investigation with additional charges possible in the future.

Citizen's Police Academy

The Police Department will be hosting an upcoming Citizen Police Academy on Tuesday evenings from 6-9 pm., beginning October 16, 2018 and continuing every Tuesday for the next eight (8) weeks until the class graduates on December 11, 2018. Join members of the agency for an exciting hands on program that will give citizens an exclusive insider's view of modern day policing, law, drug enforcement, personal protection and more. Interact with officers from Traffic, Uniform Patrol and Criminal Investigations. Those attending will also be afforded the chance to ask questions, ride along with an officer and spend an afternoon with our team at the Firing Range learning basic fundamentals of firearms safety and shooting skills.

Deadline for registration is Tuesday, October 9, 2018 and registrants must be 21 or older. Please download the application or pick up a copy at the Canton Police Department, GA.

You may send completed applications to Officer Pacer Cordry: pacer.cordry@cantonga.gov

There is no cost for this program.

Coffee with a Cop

The Police Department’s next Coffee with a Cop community event will be held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, from 8:30 -10:30 am., at Panera Bread (205 West Main Street, Canton, GA). 

Coffee with a Cop is an 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.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “This program is one of the most important monthly activities we are involved in which, is essential to us connecting with the citizens we serve. Our organizational attitude, mindset and philosophy is to build a foundation of trust with each segment of our community and diligently grow a very positive culture between our hard working department and this great City.”

Canton Detectives Investigate Entering Auto Incidents

After daybreak on Sunday, August 19, 2018, Officers responded to multiple reports of vehicles being entered in both the Summer Walk and Park Village subdivisions off Fate Conn Rd. At this time, twenty-five (25) Entering Auto reports have been documented between both neighborhoods. From what Officers and Detectives can determine, all vehicles entered were unlocked at the time of the crimes.

Additionally, homeowners were able to turn over several surveillance videos which, depict four (4) late teen or early 20’s black males walking through the communities between 1:30 – 5:00 am, pulling on vehicle door handles and entering cars they found unlocked. The suspects did not take items out of many of the vehicles but did manage to steal three (3) handguns, an undetermined amount of cash and other personal belongings.

The department has increased patrols in this area, especially during the overnight hours and urges citizens to partner with them to help enforcement efforts by locking their vehicles and removing any personal belongings to include (handguns, laptops, wallets, purses), etc. Furthermore, the agency will be conducting a “Roving Roll Call” program at the Summer Walk Subdivision Club House this Wednesday, August 22, 2018, at 5:30 pm. Please follow the department’s Facebook Page for further details.

Detectives are actively working these cases and request anyone with information about the crimes to call 911 or the department at 770-720-4883.

Click here to see the video of the suspects

Still shot from video

Officers arrest male for Public Indecency

On Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at approximately 1200 hrs., an Officer was dispatched to the report of Public Indecency in the Target parking lot located at 2022 Cumming Highway. As the responding unit was en route to the call, the 911 Operator advised the suspect was masturbating / exposing himself in front of pedestrians as they entered the store and was attempting to leave in an older model blue or green Ford Ranger pick-up. The Officer arrived, patrolled the area and was unable to locate the alleged perpetrator.

However, after further keen research and investigation, the responding Officer, along with the Shift Corporal, were able to obtain information on the owner of the pick-up truck and verified his description. They were able to confirm through contact with the male that he was in the parking lot at the time of the incident, but he advised everything was just a misunderstanding. Due to the totality of the circumstances and evidence collected, warrants were obtained for the male and he was arrested on Sunday, August 5, 2018.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell added, “I commend our hard-working Officers for their commitment and diligence in this case. We are very grateful this person was removed off the streets in our community, before he continued this activity and / or harmed someone in the future. Efforts like this greatly strengthen the quality of life for our citizens we serve.

 

Suspect Information:

James Blake Worley age: 28 of Canton, Ga.

Charge:

Public Indecency

CPD Supervisor received FBI Trilogy Award

Over the past year, Uniform Patrol Sergeant Mary Turner attended the FBI- Law Enforcement Executive Development Association’s (LEEDA) Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute and Executive Leadership Institute program.

During the course of her studies, Sgt. Turner engaged in topics to include personality diagnostics, leadership case studies, mentoring, developing your people, performance management, risk management and credibility. In addition, she was involved in such areas as command discipline and liability, dealing with problem employees and leading change within an organization. Furthermore, the Sergeant engaged in other studies such as generational leadership, paradigms and change objectives, power and influence, transactional and transformational leadership and the future of law enforcement.

Sergeant Turner recently completed this intense program and has been awarded the        FBI - LEEDA Trilogy Award and was recognized for this very important accomplishment during last night’s City Council Meeting.

Police Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “I am extremely proud of Sergeant Turner for the hard work and commitment she dedicated into finishing such a very important training program. All of our employees are vital to the success of this organization so, we must invest in their career development which not only improves their skill sets but also continues to develop our department into a premier professional agency that supports our employees and the community we serve.”

Sergeant Mary Turner 

Roving Roll Calls

In our continuing efforts to develop and strengthen our relationship with the citizens we serve, the Canton Police Department will be conducting “Roving Roll Calls” in the community. Currently, each of our Uniform Patrol Shifts holds a Roll Call prior to beginning their shifts, where officers are briefed on current issues or crime trends impacting their patrol area.

During the summer months, we will be conducting these Roll Calls inside and outside at various locations in the City, two or three times a month. The Roll Calls usually last about 10 to 15 minutes. We will post the locations and dates of these “Roving Roll Calls” on our Social Media in hopes that our community will be interested in attending. Citizens are encouraged to come watch the Roll Calls, ask any questions they may have and engage in conversations with our officers which gives the police and community a chance to interact.

If you are interested in having a “Roving Roll Call” in your area, please contact our Community Outreach Officer Pacer Cordry at Pacer.Cordry@Cantonga.gov.

Our first “Roving Roll Call” will be this Wednesday, July 18, 2018, at 5:15 pm., in the parking lot of Walmart located at 1550 Riverstone Parkway. We hope to see you there!

Police Department Builds an Active Resistance Laboratory

The Police Department recently completed construction of a multi-purpose Active Resistance Laboratory, which is located behind the City Public Works facility off Ridge Road. Agency instructors, along with Public Works Department personnel, worked together to format and build the wooden structure, which will now serve as a live scenario-based training location for the department’s Officers throughout the year.

Earlier this year, instructors attended an intense State Active Resistance course, which helped spark the idea for the agency to build its own Laboratory where Officers can train close to home and develop their skill-sets in dealing with critical force incidents. Agency instructors will use the new structure to create different mock sites (residences, businesses, etc.) for Officers to respond to and address the given Active Resistance situation.

The department’s goal for the new initiative is to continue to hone Officer’s knowledge as it relates to the following:


1. Reasonable application for Active Resistance;

2. Situational de-escalation techniques through live scenarios;

3. Legal aspects and guidelines for the use of force when faced with Active Resistance;

4. Teach skill building / transition drills to personnel on use of force and non-deadly force;

5. Instruct Officers on the latest Supreme Court decisions as to “When is Force Reasonable.”

6. Get Officers out of the classroom and into realistic training drills and scenarios;


Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell added, “We are excited to get this new and very important training course underway. I strongly believe the Active Resistance Laboratory will give our Officers the vital instruction, confidence, experience and knowledge needed when dealing with Active Resistance situations. Classroom instruction is important but live scenario-based training is key to building skill-sets in our personnel and the "know how" to help them as they make split second decisions that inherently come with many Active Resistance encounters. This multi-use structure was simple and very cost effective to build but is so very important to have in our back yard because of the many training benefits it will have for our Officers, organization and community we serve, engage with and protect each day.”

The department will begin using the facility for training in the coming months.


See pics below....

Coffee with a Cop

The Police Department’s next Coffee with a Cop community event will be held on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, from 8:00 -10:00 am., at Cup Up Coffee in downtown Canton (210 E. Main Street, 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.

Canton Police Recruitment Program

On Tuesday, July 31, 2018, from 3:00 – 5:00 pm., the Police Department is hosting a Recruitment Job Fair on the 3rd floor of Canton City Hall located at 151 Elizabeth Street, Canton, GA.

The agency is looking for candidates to become certified or persons who are already certified Peace Officers. Those who possess a mindset of community, an attitude of service and a heart of protection need apply to serve alongside a dedicated group of professional men and women who make-up one of the rising Law Enforcement organizations in our state.

Why attend the program you ask? Because we will show you we offer very competitive pay, benefits, educational incentives, experience pay, specialized certification incentives, a myriad of training opportunities, career development guidance, latest in law enforcement technology and an assigned vehicle program (Chevrolet Tahoe / Chevrolet Silverado). In addition, Officers are issued back-up weapons, patrol rifles, Body Worn Cameras and the latest in high performance uniform wear and equipment.

Furthermore, the department offers a mentorship program for new Officers, Wellness (physical / mental) program for sworn personnel, strong community involvement, coaching, mentoring, support, care, recognition for a job well done, communication throughout the agency, a true spirt of teamwork and a genuine investment in our most valued resource, our employees!

There are many other reasons to attend the recruitment fair, so if you want to join a motivated and professional team, go ahead, make the choice and we hope to see you on July 31st. If you have any questions before the event, please contact Professional Standards Sergeant Scott Hoffman at 770-720-4883 and / or via his e-mail at scott.hoffman@cantonga.gov for further details.

Become part of a team that strives each day to make a noble difference with those we serve!!




   

Swearing-in Ceremony

Canton Police held a swearing-in ceremony for it's newest Officer, Matthew Naliwajka. Officer Naliwajka was sworn into the department by Judge Darrell Caudill on Friday, June 29, 2018, at Canton City Hall.  Family, friends and other members of the Canton Police force were in attendance to show their support. Officer Nalwajka is a recent graduate of GPSTC - Cherokee Law Enforcement Academy.

Coffee with a Cop

The Police Department’s next Coffee with a Cop community event will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2018 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm., 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.

Verizon Armed Robbery

Verizon Armed Robbery- Update
3:45 pm. 6/13/2018

Canton Detectives are asking for the public's help in identifying and locating the suspect who committed an armed robbery at Verizon today. Detectives are also seeking to locate the suspect's vehicle believed to possibly be a 2016 - 2018 Nissan Sentra silver in color. Please see the attached videos.

Not Actual Vehicle

If you have any information relating to this case, please call the Canton Police Department 770-720-4883 or email jeff.trifilo@cantonga.gov or call 911.



Previous Press Release 1243 hrs. 6/13/2018

On Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at approximately 10:30 am Canton Officers, and surrounding agencies responded to an armed robbery that occurred at Verizon (3753 Marietta Hwy, Canton GA 30114).

A black male armed with a handgun entered the business, forced a female employee working alone into the back room and bound her hands and feet.

The suspect fled the scene with an undetermined amount of cell phones.  The employee managed to escape and call 911 and did not report any sustained injuries.

The initial description of the suspect:
Black male, possibly late 20's with a slim build
Pink bandana covering his face
Sunglasses
Black Hat
White gym shorts

Canton and Cherokee County Detectives are actively investigating the case and will be reviewing surveillance video from the business.  More details on the suspect and how he fled the area will be given when available.

Officers Locate Drugs and Recover Stolen Gun

On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at 1657 hrs., Officers were dispatched to a fight in progress with a handgun involved at the McDonalds located at 3240 Ridge Rd.  As responding Officers arrived, the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office was on scene working to discover what occurred and directed units to who was reportedly involved in the incident.  Officers made contact with a young female who earlier fled the scene and locked herself in the restroom of a gas station across the street from the incident location.  After speaking with her, Officers located what was determined to be a stolen firearm and an amount of suspected Marijuana that appeared to be packaged for distribution. 

During the initial investigation, a responding Officer previously made contact with a male who was reportedly involved in the altercation, identified him and did not have enough at that time to detain him at the scene.  However, the female who was located with the stolen firearm and narcotics advised Officers, the male had given the items to her and asked her to get rid of them before she fled the area.  At that time, Officers made contact with the individual who returned as a passenger in a vehicle.  He was detained and transported to the Police Department (PD) for further questioning by a Criminal Investigation Detective.  The female was taken into custody and also transported to speak to a Detective.

After interviews were completed, both individuals were charged and transported to the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office Adult Detention Center.  Before arriving at the jail, the male previously hid several scheduled narcotic pills and carried them across the Detention Center “Guard line,” which resulted in further felony drug charges.   

Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell added, “We are very happy no one was hurt during the initial altercation.  I commend our hardworking Officers and Detectives for their efforts to bring this case to a safe and successful resolution.  I also want to thank the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office for their quick response and assistance, which was vital to the initial investigation of this incident. 

Suspect:
Tyrell Maleek Corley age: 21 of Canton, Ga.
Charges:
VGCSA Possession with Intent to Distribute a Synthetic Narcotic
VGCSA Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana
Theft by Receiving Stolen Property
Tampering with Evidence
Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony 
Crossing the Guard line with Narcotics

Suspect:
Savannah Leann Howell age: 17 of Canton, Ga.
Charges:
Reckless Conduct
Tampering with Evidence   

“CPD Commander receives Leadership Award”

Over the past year, Operations Bureau Commander Captain Jeff Tucker has attended the FBI- Law Enforcement Executive Development Association’s (LEEDA) Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute, and Executive Leadership Institute program.

During the course of his studies, Captain Tucker engaged in topics to include personality diagnostics, leadership case studies, mentoring, developing your people, performance management, risk management and credibility. In addition, he was involved in such areas as command discipline and liability, dealing with problem employees and leading change within an organization. Furthermore, the Captain engaged in other studies such as generational leadership, paradigms and change objectives, power and influence, transactional and transformational leadership and the future of law enforcement.

Captain Jeff Tucker

Captain Tucker just recently completed this intense program and has been awarded the FBI - LEEDA Trilogy Award and will be recognized for this very important accomplishment during a City Council Meeting in the future.

Canton Police Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “I am extremely proud of Captain Tucker for the commitment, dedication and hard work he put into finishing such a very important training program. All of our employees are vital to the success of this organization so, we must invest in their career development which not only improves their skill sets but also continues to develop our department into a premier professional agency that supports our employees and the community we serve.”

Officers Nab Suspect after Crime Spree

On Wednesday, May 9, 2018, Officers responded to several incidents throughout the City to include an incident of Shoplifting, Narcotics Possession, Theft by Taking (Auto) and Burglary (2 counts) all committed by the same suspect during the course of the day. 

Just before 11:00 am., an Officer was patrolling the area of East Main Street and Brown Industrial Parkway when she alertly noticed a white Dodge Caravan occupied by two (2) males sitting in the roadway.  The Officer turned around to assist the stranded motorist when she observed the individuals quickly exit the vehicle and leave the scene on foot.  As the Officer made it to the vehicle, the persons were nowhere to be found, the van’s engine appeared to be smoking and it was obstructing the roadway.  At that time, the vehicle was towed out of the lane of travel and still, no contact was made with the occupants who left the scene.

Later in the early afternoon, just after 2:00 pm., Officers responded to the report of a Shoplifting in progress at Kohl’s located at 2034 Cumming Highway.  Upon arrival, the responding Officer made contact with Loss Prevention who advised they stopped a man who previously was walking through the store taking assorted articles of clothing and placing them in his backpack.  The stolen items were recovered from the suspect and the Officer determined the male had outstanding warrants through the City of Canton and Cherokee County.  As the reporting Officer took the individual into custody for the outstanding warrants and the charge of shoplifting, he discovered the suspect was in possession of four (4) Schedule IV Narcotic pills.  The perpetrator was then transported to the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office Adult Detention Facility. 

As the afternoon progressed, Officers discussed the fact the male who was arrested at Kohl’s may be one of the subjects who earlier walked off from the abandoned vehicle on East Main Street.  Around 4:30 pm., Units responded to the Mr. Clean Carwash at 220 Riverstone Parkway in reference to the report of a stolen auto.  As the reporting Officer arrived, it now became clear why the individuals left the scene of the abandoned vehicle, because it was stolen overnight.  During the course of the investigation, Officers obtained store surveillance video, which shows the male, who was previously arrested at Kohl’s and left the abandoned vehicle on East Main Street, to be the same suspect who entered the carwash earlier that morning around 1:16 am.  Once in the carwash bay, the perpetrator took the white caravan and as he left, he damaged one (1) of the facility bay doors.

The calls involving this person did not stop there because later in the evening at approximately 11:00 pm., Officers responded to the report of a Burglary that occurred at 120 Westview Street.  The reporting party advised responding units that he left for work in the morning and when he arrived home just before he called, he noticed someone forcibly entered the front door to his residence and took his large screen TV.  During the course of the investigation, Officers and the assigned Detective discovered a possible suspect name, which turned out to be the same person our Officer arrested earlier in the day for the aforementioned criminal activity.  At that time, the reported stolen TV in the burglary incident was located in the rear of the recovered stolen Dodge Caravan that was towed previously in the day.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “I am proud of the teamwork of our Officers and Detectives, which was very important in connecting and solving the cases involving this suspect.  One of the points in our Mission Statement is to create a safer Canton by reducing crime and by taking this person off our streets, it goes a long way toward improving the quality of life for our great community.”

Suspect:

Christian Davis Hawkins age: 19 of Decatur, Ga.

Charges:

Burglary (2 counts)

Theft by Taking (Auto)

VGCSA Possession of a Schedule IV Narcotic

Theft by Shoplifting (M)

Coffee with a Cop

The Police Department’s next Coffee with a Cop community event will be held on Friday, May 18, 2018, from 8:00 -10:00 am., at Dunkin Donuts located at 121 Marietta Hwy, 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.

Canton Officers Promoted

Taylor Lilley and Tyler McClure were both promoted to the rank of Corporal on Wednesday, May 3, 2018, at Canton City Hall. Both Officers recently participated in a promotional process and were selected for promotion to take on more leadership responsibility within the organization.

Good Police Work and Community Help Leads to Burglary Arrest

Surveillance video from Kroger of the arrested individuals cashing in coins.

On Thursday, April 26, 2018, just after 7:00 pm., Officers were dispatched to the report of a burglary at 172 Diamond Ridge Avenue.  Upon arrival, units discovered a young female (who was at home in the late afternoon) observed several suspicious subjects at the front door of her residence.  The teenage girl ran upstairs and hid at that time.  She told reporting Officers she then heard persons forcibly enter two (2) interior rooms in the home.  Furthermore, it was determined two (2) firearms, a pair of shoes and several plastic jars filled with change were taken as a result of the crime.  During the initial investigation, an Officer proactively and keenly called several stores in the area to make them aware of the coins that were stolen, in case the suspects came to their location to cash in the stolen change.

Later in the evening just before 8:30 pm., the manager of the Kroger located at 4045 Marietta Highway called to report two (2) black males were cashing out a large amount of change at their store.  Further information from dispatch revealed the individuals matched the description of the suspects involved in the earlier burglary.  When Officers arrived, they quickly detained the two (2) males along with a female driver who was waiting for the individuals in the parking lot.  At that time, it was confirmed the stolen change containers from the burglary were in the vehicle the group was attempting to leave in as Officers arrived.

All subjects were transported to the Police Department to speak with Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Detectives who had previously responded to assess the crime scene, conduct interviews and further the investigation into the felony case.  As a result of the response to the residence, apprehension of the suspects in the parking lot of Kroger and thorough follow up investigation by Officers / Detectives, all three (3) individuals were charged in connection with the residential burglary.

Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell said, “I am extremely proud of the hard work and quick proactive thinking of our Officers and Detectives.  We are also grateful for our working relationship with the staff of the Kroger on Marietta Highway.  Their willingness to get involved was key to the apprehension of the suspects involved in this case.”

This is an on-going investigation and we urge anyone who has information pertaining to this case to please contact the Police Department via our social media pages or call the main number at 770-720-4883.

Suspect / Charge Information:
Devonte Atrion Scott (age: 22 of Waleska, Ga.) charged with Burglary;
Terrell Nathan Williams (age: 18 of Canton, Ga.) charged with Burglary;
Madison Fuller (age: 17 of Canton, Ga.) charged with Burglary;

Suspect Wanted in Connection to Indictment of Double-Homicide

Update: After making contact with Canton Police, Bryson Miller turned himself into the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center on Tuesday, April 24, 2018.

==========================================================

Previous Press Release:
4/23/2018 5:52pm

Wanted: Bryson Miller
Hight: 5'10"
Weight: 165 lbs
Eyes: Brown
Age: 29
Of Canton GA

Bryson Miller has been indicted in Cherokee County in the recent list of indictments brought on April 10th, 2018, regarding a double-homicide that occurred in Canton in June of 2017. If you locate Miller or know his whereabouts, please call 911.

Please see the attached Cherokee County District Attorney's press release. If you have any questions pertaining to this case, please contact the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office at 770-479-1488.

Wanted: Bryson Miller

Wanted: Bryson Miller

Officers Begin Serving Community

Four new recruits were sworn into the Canton Police Department on Thursday, March 29, 2018. During the ceremony, which was held at Canton City Hall, four (4) Canton Police Officers were sworn in by Judge Thomas A. Roach and each given their new badge. Family, friends and other members of the Canton Police force were in attendance to show their support for the new Officers.


Officers Erin Leonard, Michael Shaw, Zachary Sherer and Christopher Cochran each successfully completed the Officer training course at the Rome GPSTC training facility. Officer Leonard served as Class President and Officer Cochran served as the Vice President.  Officer Michael Shaw was a proud member of the class Color Guard.

"We are very proud of our new Officers and look forward to them gaining more experience in our Field Training Program.  We feel they are an excellent fit for our organization and community we serve.  They all have the right attitude, mindset and heart to engage and protect this great city."

What Every Teen Driver Should Know! “Taught by a Cop”

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CantonPolice

If you know a new or soon to be a licensed driver, please have them attend “Traffic Stop with a Cop” being held on Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Canton City Hall from 11:00 AM- 1:30 PM.  The Canton Police Department has created a class for teens that focuses on what to do during a traffic stop.  The class will also teach very important information that every new driver should know.

 What to expect during a traffic stop

 Constitutional Rights during an officer interaction

 What to do in the event of an accident

 The laws of a class “D” license

 The impact of a citation on a driver’s license and insurance

 Texting and driving consequences 

Lawmakers in some states require driver education classes to teach “appropriate interactions with law enforcement officers.”  Illinois, North Carolina, and Virginia passed a similar law recently.  Mississippi, New Jersey, Texas and Rhode Island also are considering them.  Although Georgia does not require the education, the Canton Police Department believes this class will benefit young drivers by giving them the knowledge of what to expect during the traffic stop.  

Students of the class will get to experience a mock traffic stop as a driver and then see the encounter from an officer’s point of view.  Canton Police hopes the class will allow drivers to be less nervous during a stop and give them confidence by having gone through a role-play traffic encounter scenario.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “We are extremely excited to offer this educational and insightful program for new teen drivers.  Our goal, and the purpose of this initiative is to relay to young motorists what to expect during a traffic stop, their rights during the interaction and the Officer’s point of view.  We hope this education, along with good communication, are key components to keeping everyone safe during a traffic stop encounter.  Not only do we want those in attendance to know what to expect but we also want anyone who leaves from a traffic stop with one of our Officers to be treated fairly, respectfully and given a voice in the process regardless of whether they received a citation or not.  Our organization strives to practice these principles of Procedural Justice in today’s world of 21st Century Policing.”      

  

Traffic Stop with a Cop is recommended for those that are 14-19 years old. The class will be limited to thirty students.  To apply, please fill out the online registration form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CantonPolice

Class Schedule – 

10:30am Check-in and handouts 

11:00am-12:00pm PowerPoint presentation 

12:00pm-12:30pm Complimentary lunch provided (pizza)

12:30pm-1:30pm Mock traffic stops and demonstration

Law Enforcement Investigate Possible Kidnapping

Update (8:00 AM)
After further investigation, Detectives have determined Ms. Britney Young was not kidnapped from her residence as initially indicated upon Officers arrival. Detectives are still working to determine exactly what occurred, but have established enough evidence to charge Calvin Elliott with Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-395). He also had an outstanding warrant for Failure to Appear from Bartow County. Ms. Britney Young was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30) and Possession of Drug Related Objects (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-32).

Update (5:00 AM)
Officers have located Ms. Britney Young in Canton and she is safe at this time.  In addition, Detectives along with the GBI have taken Mr. Calvin Elliott into custody at a residence in Pickens County.  


Detectives are working to see exactly what happened in this incident and more will be released when available to include information in reference to pending charges for Calvin Elliott.


Previous Release:
Just after 11:00 pm., on Sunday, March 18, 2018, Officers were dispatched to the report of a burglary in progress at 306 Tiffany Lane.  The female caller advised an ex-boyfriend was attempting to forcibly enter her apartment.  As an Officer arrived at the complex, he observed a black in color vehicle quickly leaving the area and attempted to stop the car but the vehicle fled the scene.  Not knowing if the 911 caller was in the car or not, units attempted to make contact with the complainant at her residence and discovered she was not there.  At this time, attempts to locate the female have been unsuccessful and it appears a Ms. Brittany Young age: 29 was taken by her ex-boyfriend a Mr. Calvin Elliott age: 32.  Both individuals are believed to be traveling in a 2007 Black Acura TL tag # RHC9353.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been requested to assist with this active investigation.  Anyone with information about this incident is strongly urged to call 911 or the Police Department's main number at 770-720-4883.             

More information will be released when available. 

Brittany Young

Saving a Life Becomes Group Effort

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, at 12:11 pm., Officers responded to the report of a person down on the I-575 northbound off-ramp to Hickory Flat Highway (Exit # 16).  Three (3) units quickly arrived and found thirty-eight (38) year old male Mr. Austin Alan Gelder to have no pulse and not breathing.  On scene, the caller, Ms. Sherri Blalock-Whitten, advised Officers she was giving the individual a ride to the hospital because he was feeling very ill.  In addition, another passerby had stopped and was administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to the person down as Officers arrived.

Cpl. Jose Souto, Officer Kyle Harahus, and Officer Daniel Mendoza immediately began rendering aid to the lifeless male by taking over CPR, administering breaths from a manual respirator and utilized an assigned Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

The dedicated Officers worked as a team for several minutes as they coordinated chest compressions along with the use of the respirator and administered three (3) shocks to the patient’s heart from the AED before Cherokee Fire Medics arrived on scene.  Upon Medics arrival, they continued to work on Mr. Gelder and transported him to Northside – Cherokee Hospital as Officers cleared traffic for the ambulance.  Responding Officers later learned that Mr. Gelder was in recovery and in stable condition at the hospital due to their immediate life-saving efforts, quick response of the caller to 911 and the passerby who stopped to administer CPR.   
 
Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell said, “Our Officers and these kind Samaritans were extremely calm, caring and worked as a team, which directly resulted in saving a human life.  We are extremely grateful that Mr. Gelder is on his way to recovery.  As proven before, the diligent mindset, attitude and heart set of our Officers, partnership with our citizens and the addition of the AED devices to our fleet strengthens our abilities to protect, serve and improve the quality of life for our community.”
The agency is coordinating the attendance of both Good Samaritans and Mr. Gelder or members of his family to the City Council Meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 5, 2018.  Chief Mitchell will present the department’s Life-Saving Award to the involved Officers and Good Samaritans at that time. 

Can you identify this good Samaritan?

The department is currently working to obtain the name of the Good Samaritan who stopped and conducted CPR because she quickly left the scene before Officers obtained her information.  Please see the attached photo of the unknown passerby. We ask if anyone has any information pertaining to this individual to contact us via our social media pages or call the Police Department at 770-720-7883.  Furthermore, please let her know that she can also contact us via our social media pages or call the main number listed above.

Law Enforcement Arrest Fleeing Entering Auto Suspect

On Friday, March 9, 2018, just after 2000 hrs., Officers were dispatched to the report of a suspicious person who attempted to open a vehicle door at the Panda Express located at 1401 Riverstone Parkway. As units responded, dispatch further advised the complainant relayed that a male wearing a black hoodie tried to open her car door as her son sat in their vehicle while she was picking up food at the restaurant. The shift Lieutenant arrived at 2008 hrs. and located an individual who matched the description of the suspect standing on the shoulder of Reinhardt College Parkway near the intersection of Riverstone Parkway. 

The Lieutenant began talking to the male who appeared to be under the influence of something but did give the Supervisor his name and date of birth. As a back-up Officer arrived, the suspicious person fled on foot across Reinhardt College Parkway toward Longhorns. Both Officers gave chase and again located the male running back toward Riverstone Parkway through the parking lot. A Georgia State Patrol Trooper who was in the area joined in the foot pursuit, caught up to the male and took him into custody without further incident. Once under arrest, the suspect was found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana, drug-related objects and an unmarked pill bottle containing suspected Xanax pills.

Later, after the scene was clear, another call was received by a complainant at the Panda Express in reference to their vehicle door being open, ignition on and a strange cell phone left in their car. A subsequent investigation by Officers and the on-call Criminal Investigation Sergeant revealed that the suspect admitted to attempting to enter a vehicle and actually did enter another car near the Panda Express where he did leave his cellphone behind.

Chief of Police Mark J. Mitchell added, “I commend the efforts of the citizen who contacted us about this crime, the work of our Officers and want to thank the Georgia State Patrol for their support. The combined teamwork was vital to the suspect’s arrest and goes a long way toward improving the quality of life for those we serve.”

Suspect Information
Steven Neil Walker age: 34 of Jasper, Ga.

Charges
Entering Auto
VGCSA Possession of a Schedule IV Drug
VGCSA Possession of Marijuana Less than 1 oz.
Obstruction of an Officer (M)
Possession of Drug Related Objects

Mailbox Theft Arrests

On Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 1040 hrs., Officers were dispatched to the report of two (2) individuals stealing mail from mailboxes on Evening Rain Crest and Thundering Hills Ridge in the Great Sky subdivision. Upon arrival, Officers patrolled the area, collected several witness statements and alertly located a seventeen (17) year old male and sixteen (16) year old female who matched the description of the suspects in the case.

An additional witness located numerous pieces of mail behind his residence and immediately turned the items over to Officers on scene. Units confirmed the found mail was taken from the residences in the neighborhood. At that time, Detectives responded, conducted additional interviews with witnesses and attempted to interview both perpetrators. In the end, both individuals were charged with two (2) counts of Theft by Taking but additional Theft counts are pending as we work to identify all victims in the investigation.



Suspect Information:

Teziyah Tyemiar Frederick age: 17 of Canton, Ga.

Juvenile female age: 16 of Canton, Ga.

Canton Police Hires New Officer

Please welcome our newest police officer, Greg Hardage to the department. He was sworn in on Tuesday, February 13, 2017, by Judge Thomas A. Roach at Canton City Hall.

Ofc. Hardage brings three (3) years of previous law enforcement experience to the department. He will begin the required field training program to give him the tools necessary to be a successful member of the organization.

Chief Mark Mitchell stated, “We are extremely proud and honored to have Officer Gregory Hardage join our organization. His skill set, attitude, mindset and heart set will be a very good fit for the department and community we engage with every day."

Left to right: Ofc. Greg Hardage, Judge Thomas A. Roach, Deputy Chief Steven Merrifield

Canton Police Recruitment Program

The Police Department is currently hiring for the position of Police Officer. The agency is actively looking for diverse men and women who aspire to join a very professional organization and possess a community mindset to serve and protect the citizens of Canton. 

To further the goal of employing those candidates who are the best fit for the department, the organization will be hosting its third “Police Recruitment Program” on Thursday, February 22, 2018, from 3:00 - 5:00 pm., on the third floor of Canton City Hall located at 151 Elizabeth Street, Canton, Ga. 30114. 

Those who are interested in attending this informative event will need to be there no later than 3:00 pm. Attendees will be given a presentation that covers the agency’s Mission Statement, Core Values, Nobility Statement, budget facts, breakdown of latest new equipment, current programs, work-projects and an overview of the organization’s structure. In addition, presenters will cover a summary of the department’s hiring standards, the hiring process and employee salary / benefits. The event will end with a question and answer session for persons in attendance. 

Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, “We are very excited to host this event because our goal is to attract the most professional, viable, diverse and community oriented candidates that are the best fit for our organization. We are working hard to build a team that strives to connect with our citizens, protect our public, supports each other and endeavors to improve the quality of life for the community we serve. We want to be proactive in the recruitment of Officer candidates and not simply reactive by posting the position and wait for individuals to apply.” Chief Mitchell urges citizens to monitor the department’s active Facebook page for further recruiting information over the coming weeks before the event.

The agency will also be reaching out to military outsource centers, colleges, law enforcement academies and other civic organizations in an effort to attract the best applicants for the position of Police Officer.    

 

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

El departamento de la policía está actualmente contratando para la posición de policías patrulleros. La agencia esta activamente buscas hombres y mujeres quién aspiran unirse a una profesional/organización y tienen la mentalidad de servir y proteger la comunidad y los ciudadanos de Cantón. La meta es emplear aquellos candidatos quiénes puedan adaptarse al departamento.

La agencia haciendo el tercero "Programa Contratación de Policía" el Jueves 22 Febrero del 2018, de 3:00 - 5:00 pm., en el tercio piso en 151 Elizabeth Street, Cantón, GA. 30114. Aquellos quién estén interesado en asistir a este evento necesitarán estar presente no más tarde que 3:00 pm. La asistencia es voluntaria se dará una presentación que cubre la Misión y Valores de la agencia, presupuesto, Equipo de trabajo, programas actuales, proyectos de trabajo y visión general de la agencia.

Además, se cubrirá en resumen las normas para contratación del departamento, el proceso de contratación y salario / beneficios de empleo. El evento acabará con una sesión de pregunta y respuesta para personas interesadas.

El Jefe de Policía Mark J. Mitchell declaró, " Estamos muy emocionados por este evento, nuestra meta es a atraer a más diverso profesionales, que protejan nuestra comunidad. Candidatos que se puedan adaptar a nuestra organización. Nosotros estamos trabajando duro para construir un equipo que pueda conectarse con nuestros ciudadanos, proteger nuestro público, apoyarnos uno a los otros y que esfuercen en mejorar la calidad de vida para la comunidad que servimos. Queremos a ser proactivos en la contratación de candidatos y no simplemente esperar por que las personas apliquen."

El Jefe de Policía Mitchell los invita a unirse a la página de Facebook de el Departamento de la policía para más información del evento. La agencia estará hiendo a las centro de la fuera a militar, colegios, academias de policía y otras organizaciones en esfuerzo de atraer los mejor solicitantes para la posición de policía patrullero.