Canton Police Welcomes New Officer

Canton Police held a swearing-in ceremony for it's newest Officer, Alexander Ball. He was sworn into the department by Judge Darrell Caudill on Thursday, September 26, 2019, at the Canton Public Safety and Municipal Court Complex. Family, friends, and other members of the Canton Police force were in attendance to show their support. Officer Ball served as a Police Officer at the Gainesville Police Department for two years before joining the Canton Police Department.

Interim Chief Merrifield stated "We are blessed that Officer Ball has chosen the Canton Police Department to continue his law enforcement career. He has the right mindset, attitude, and heart to faithfully serve our community. We welcome him to the CPD and look forward to his service".



Left to right: Capt. J. Tucker, Interim Chief Stephen Merrifield, Ofc A. Ball, Judge D. Caudill, Capt. W. Turner, Lt. J. Lummus

Terroristic Threats and Acts Arrest

On Tuesday, September 3, 2019, just after 5:00 pm., Officers received information in reference to threats being made at Canton City Hall.  Upon further review, it was reported an individual was not satisfied with the service provided to him while waiting in line at the City Utility Department and made a statement that he was going to get his gun and come back to shoot everyone.

Criminal Investigation Division Detectives quickly began an inquiry into the serious matter, obtained witness statements and an omission from the suspect.  He was arrested just before 8:30 pm. and will be charged with the crime of Terroristic Threats and Acts.

Chief Mark J. Mitchell said, “I am very proud of the swift work of our Detectives and the fact we were able to intervene and bring a safe and successful resolution to this incident.  Our City Staff works very hard as it relates to solving problems and brings very professional customer service to our citizenry.  We will not tolerate someone threatening violence and will investigate these potentially volatile situations with a true sense of urgency and justice.”

Chief Mitchell added, “As in this case, it is very important to remind our citizens and employees alike to bring these types of threatening statements forward to the attention of Law Enforcement because of the potential of threats to be turned into harmful and deadly actions by those who have the capacity to carry them out against those we serve.”   

Suspect Information: 
Mr. Malton Howard Nelson – age: 69 of Canton, GA.

Charges:  
Terroristic Threats and Acts