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Lamar County Sheriff's Office
News Releases

PRESS RELEASE

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

January 12, 2012

 

Effective January 31, 2012, Captain Carole Sutton is retiring from the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office.  Captain Sutton served Lamar County for nine years in the 1980s and then served twenty years with the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office.  She rejoined Lamar County as the Assistant Jail Administrator in 2009.  Since that time she was promoted to Captain – Jail Administrator.  She has served Lamar County well for a large part of her career.  Carole will continue to serve Lamar County as a court bailiff.

Captain Carole Sutton will be replaced by Captain Reginald Sutton who is presently with the Griffin Police Department.  Captain Sutton has experience with the Georgia Department of Corrections, The Griffin Police Department and has been a Lamar County Sheriff’s Reserve Deputy for three years.  He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.  Presently he is working on a Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the Georgia Command College at Columbus State University.   Captain Reginald Sutton is a resident of Lamar County.  Sheriff Waller said that Lamar County is very fortunate to have Captain Sutton as a member of our command staff.


PRESS RELEASE

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

October 6, 2011

Maj. Brad White

 
INTERNET AND TELEPHONE SCAMS

                The age of instant communication, internet, toll-free long distance and all the other electronic marvels has opened a fertile field of opportunity for criminals. The anonymity provided by working through untraceable means from half way around the world has emboldened predators to target anyone in the country. They are predators and therefore try to pick the weakest victim as their prey.

                New scams are limited only by the creativity of the criminals. We have seen where people file their federal taxes and find that their taxes have already been filed. The criminal simply has to have your name and social security number and with a few fraudulent documents and a Post Office box he can get a refund quickly. If there is an audit later the victim is left to defend his position so guard your personal information.

                Most of the scams come from overseas’ sources, and the crooks are good at making it appear that they are actually close to you. Do not be afraid of offending them when they call because they are nowhere near and are very unlikely to appear at your door. Sometimes a part of the scam is for them to tell the victim that they are coming to their house. Some victims are frightened at the prospect that they are coming and may agree to their demands to prevent a visit. They usually ask for the victim to send an amount of money for which they will, in return, send a huge amount of cash. If the victim sends money the criminals will then ratchet up their demands for more.

At times the victim will be sent an authentic looking cashiers’ or certified check. Their instructions to the victim will be to deposit the fraudulent check into their own account and then write a check to the scammer  for an amount less than the cashiers’ or certified check.  The victim is told that he can have the difference for his trouble. The fraudulent check will eventually be returned as fraudulent, but the victim will have written his own valid check to the criminal. The criminal immediately cashes the victim’s check and the victim loses the amount of his own check.

Selling on internet sites are opportunities for criminals. If a victim advertises an item and a buyer sends more than the purchase price with instructions for refunding part of it to him you can be assured that there is a scam. Again his check will be fraudulent and the victim will be charged for the check he sends. Sometimes the criminal will take possession of the item and the victim will lose both the item and any refunded money.

One other current scam is getting a call from someone who is seemingly stranded in a foreign country and needs to have a few dollars wired to them for expenses.

 Remember that these people are criminals and anything offered is a scam. Here are some tips.

1.       Anytime a deal sounds too good to be true, it is. Simply hang up the telephone without saying a word. The intended victim may want to talk, but the most effective response is to ignore the caller. He may call back later but when he can get no attention he will go on to another victim.

2.       Never make change for a buyer in any deal. If it is legitimate the buyer will never overpay. 

3.       Keep all your numbers and passwords secure.  

4.       Be very skeptical and call the Sheriff’s Office if the caller persists.  

Maj. Brad White says that according to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (run by the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center) reported internet fraud cost to victims was almost $560 million, more than double the amount in 2008. The researchers say that the true cost is in the billions because only about 10 percent are reported.


PRESS RELEASE 
Lamar County Sheriff’s Office
July15,2011

Sheriff Larry Waller announced the promotion of Leslie Baines-Holmes from Lieutenant to Captain. Captain Baines-Holmes is appointed as Commander of the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and reports to Maj. Brad White- Chief Deputy Sheriff.

Captain Baines-Holmes is a long time Sheriff’s Office employee. She is originally from Wharton, Texas, where she attended Wharton Community College, and she has made Lamar County her home since 1998. She is a veteran of the United States Army, honorably discharged in September 1997 and she began her law enforcement career with Lamar County as a Jailer in March 1998. Since that time she has held the positions of Booking Sergeant, Patrol Deputy, Patrol Sergeant, and Patrol Lieutenant. She has been nominated on two occasions for the honor of Law Enforcement Officer of the Year and is also active in the Bethel Baptist Church.

 Sheriff Waller said, “Leslie is ideally qualified for the Patrol Commander position because of her experience in all ranks. She is excellent in handling any problem that she encounters and she exemplifies the type of leadership that is essential. Her professionalism and quiet demeanor serves as a role model to all deputies. Lamar County is very fortunate to have Captain Baines-Holmes. “


MAKE PROM A NIGHT TO REMEMBER, NOT A NIGHT IN JAIL


The Lamar County Sheriff's Office joins Harris Blackwood of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety in wishing you all a safe and sober prom night.  "Underage drinking is not a rite of passage.  It’s against the law and it’s wrong on the highway.  Make prom night a night to remember, not a night in jail."  For more information on how to make prom season a safe and sober one, visit the TEAM Georgia website at ht
tp://www.teamgeorgia.net/content/home.asp . 

On February 25, 2011, the Lamar County Sheriff's Office ICE Team was presented with the award for the 2010 Highway Level Interdiction Team of the year from the National Criminal Enforcement Association at the NCEA 2011 Winter Conference & Patrol Seminar.   Interdiction teams nationwide were considered for this honor.  Lamar County is very proud to have been chosen.  Pictured above: Sgt. Chris Webster, Sgt. Chad Payne, Capt. Todd Pippin, Sheriff Larry Waller, Sgt. Gary Long. 

Congratulations to Sgt. Gary Long, Sgt. Chad Payne and Sgt. Chris Webster from everyone at the Lamar County Sheriff's Office for a job well done. 

   


Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

Press Release

December 17, 2010

At approximately 1:30 on Thursday December 16,2010 units from the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office, without notification to Lamar County, attempted an arrest of Matthew Brandon Phillips, white male, age 22, of  85 Crescent Ave. Griffin, GA on a warrant from Clayton County. During the attempted arrest Phillips attempted to flee from the officers. Phillips pushed the victim, Sheila Kay Cardell, white female, age 55, of 1721 East McIntosh Road, Griffin, GA out of the truck.

He drove his truck around the mobile home and struck the victim, still lying on the ground, causing extensive damage to her right leg and other possible injuries. She was taken to the Macon Medical Center for treatment. The chase continued along Old Alabama Road, Locust Street, into Milner, out Zebulon Road, and south on Five Points Road. The chase ended with the suspect running off the road, through a fence, and into the woods. After wrecking the vehicle, Phillips fled on foot. Lamar E911 was notified of the incident only after the chase was in progress. Deputies of the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident and arrived at the site of the vehicle wreck. Later the suspect was found, hiding under leaves, by Tpr. Mike Maynard, DNR Ranger Keith Page, and LCSO Major Brad White.

A consent search was made of the residence and a small quantity of methamphetamines and several firearms were seized. Arrested after the search was Christina Lynn Hill, white female, age 24 of 366 Liberty Hill Road, Milner, GA . Phillips was also charged with the drugs and weapons. He was also charged with hit-and-run, leaving the scene of an accident, fleeing and attempting to allude, obstruction, destruction of Government property aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and criminal damage to property.

Sheriff Waller said, “The deputies of the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Squad were legal in their arrest of Phillips, but it is far from being an accepted practice. The officers should have contacted the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office before attempting any action in Lamar County.  We would have assisted them and might have avoided the tragic incident to the victim. Clayton County Sheriff Kem Kimbrough has been notified and is investigating why the deputies did not follow normal procedure to notify the local Sheriff”.

Phillips was taken into custody by the Clayton County deputies. He will have a hold placed on him and when the original charges are adjudicated he will be returned to Lamar County for prosecution here.


The Lamar County Sheriff's Office has selected GovDeals, an online auction service for government entities, to conduct online sales of surplus property and equipment.  The online system will replace the annual live property auctions held at the Sheriff's Office.  This online capability will save a tremendous amount of time and manpower while reducing storage and depreciation costs as well.

GovDeals is specifically designed for government entities to sell surplus property over the Internet, as well as to support redistribution of excess assets within public institutions.  Bidders can register free of charge at the GovDeals website,
www.GovDeals.com.

Press Release

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

November 8, 2010

 

Holiday Safety Tips

 

During the holiday season, busy people intent on trying to complete their Christmas shopping may fall prey to unscrupulous criminals who skulk in mall and shopping center parking lots, doing their “shopping” from the packages placed in parked vehicles.  Some foresight and planning can reduce the chances of becoming a victim during a season that should be a joyous and loving celebration.

 

When shopping, look for the best lit parking spaces.  Once in your chosen space, look around before leaving your car.  Is there anyone in the vicinity watching you?  Do you see anyone loitering?  If so, remain in your car and watch them for a moment.  If they move on, that’s fine, but if not, you might consider moving to a new parking space.  If you feel uncertain or unsafe about a situation you observe, take steps to move yourself to a safer location.  Don’t assume you are being foolish or paranoid.

 

Once you are in a safer location, lock your vehicle and move quickly and confidently to the store.  Would-be thieves and robbers are looking for the easiest targets.  If you show that you are aware of what is happening around you and move with a sense of purpose, you are less likely to become a victim.  Walk against the flow and traffic. 

 

Keep your head up and scanning—look forward, to the right and left, and even check behind as you walk.  Awareness is your greatest defense.  Don’t search through a purse or bags in the parking lot.  If you must look for something, make sure you are in the safety of the store before you become absorbed in your hunt for a tissue, shopping list, or other item.

 

If you store items in your vehicle, make sure they are covered or concealed.  If you are putting bags in your vehicle and returning to shop, move your car from time to time in case someone is watching you.

 

Finally, if leaving late from a shopping mall or store, don’t hesitate to ask a store employee for help.  Don’t accept the kind offer of the “stranger” who meets you outside the door and offers assistance.  It may be a kind and generous offer, but it could also be ploy to gain access to your belongings. 

 

Be aware, stay safe, and have a joyous and wonderful holiday season!


Press Release

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

September 29, 2010

 

Fall is here and the holiday season is about to start.  Halloween/October 31 (Saturday) this year is a fun time for kids, but for parents it can also be a time of concern.  Sheriff Larry Waller and the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office would like for you to follow these safety tips:

 

·         Be sure costumes, shoes and treat bags are safe.

·         Take a flashlight.

·         Never cross the street alone.

·         Young children should be accompanied by their parents or another responsible adult.

·         Remind kids not to enter stranger’s homes or cars.

·         Stay away from open flames they can catch costumes and long wigs on fire.

·         Set rules about not eating treats until kids get home.  Be sure to inspect all treats before allowing kids to eat them.

·         Candy that has been opened should be thrown away.

·         Any homemade treats or fruit should be inspected closely.

 

Deputies from the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office and Officers from the Barnesville Police Department will be on hand for your safety.


Press Release

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

September 29, 2010

 

 Sheriff Larry Waller and the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office celebrate National Crime Prevention Month in October.  We offer the following crime prevention tips:

 

  • Do not let any unscheduled repair person in the home.  Unfortunately, these days it is easy to make a really good fake ID.  If someone shows up and says they are from the water/electric company, call the company before letting anyone in.  Have them schedule an appointment beforehand.
  • Do not give out personal information over the phone, online or to someone at the door.  Never give personal information to a stranger.  Also, shred documents that contain personal information and protect yourself from identity theft.
  • Make sure your home always looks occupied.  Turn on a radio or TV when going out; set lights to timers and leave some blinds up to make it seem that someone is home.
  • Secure electric garage door openers.  A burglar can get into a house by accessing the garage door.  Make sure cars are locked and don’t have the garage door opener visible from outside.  Lock the entrance door from the garage into the house as well.
  • Keep sliding glass doors secure.  Position a solid piece of wood or metal rod in the track to prevent the door from being slid open even if a burglar manages to break or open the lock.
  • Do not leave signs that the house is vacant.  Stop mail from being delivered while on vacation.  As a trustworthy friend or neighbor to check on the house or even park a car in the driveway so it looks as though the house is occupied.
  • Be aware of who your neighbors are.  Get to know them, pay attention to who is coming and going, and organize a community watch.  Join your local “NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM”.
  • Install a security system in your home.  Security systems are more affordable than ever and technological advances have made them easier to use.  One of the most valuable uses of an alarm system is the alarm that sounds when you open your door.  The audible chime tells you that no one has entered your home, and might possibly still be inside, while you have been away.

Georgia is home to a significant number of organized dogfighters, illegal breeding facilities and high stakes dogfights.  Dogfighting is a felony in Georgia and it is often associated with other crimes.  If you know of any such activity occurring in Lamar County we urge you to call the Lamar County Sheriff's Office at 770-358-5159.  Anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a dogfighter may be eligible to receive up to $5,000 reward from the Humane Society of the United States.  Information can also be reported to the HSUS national tip line at 1-877-TIP-HSUS.

Press Release

Lamar County Sheriff’s Office

August 3, 2010

 

Wayne McDarman Hill, black male age 42 of 21315 Northeast Unit 8 Miami, FL was arrested and charged by Deputies of the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office with trafficking in Methlenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstacy on the street). Approximately 40,000 pills or 16 pounds, with a street value of about $800,000 were found in the suspect’s vehicle.

 

The suspect was a part of a scheme to take manufactured ecstasy pills from Canada to Miami where they were to be exchanged for cocaine to be taken back to Canada to repeat the cycle. The seizure of MDMA is one of the largest on record in the United States.  

 

The United States Drug Enforcement Agency was notified and they responded for assistance. Sheriff Waller said, “This is a large seizure, but it is part of a ‘pill pipeline’ from Florida through Kentucky, and into Canada. Prescription medications have been intercepted as well. Most Ecstasy is now made in Holland and shipped into Canada to be distributed in the United States. MDMA or ecstasy is made using methamphetamines as a primary ingredient”.

 

Because of the international nature of the case it will probably be prosecuted in Federal Court by the DEA.


 
LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
PRESS RELEASE
May 5, 2010

Sheriff Larry Waller encourages parents and kids to be safe and enjoy the summer

Sgt. Stead Walker, Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office and the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Angela Mickalide of the National SAFE KIDS Campaign offers these timely tips for parents and kids:

VEHICLE SAFETY
You should never allow children to play in driveways, in cars, or around parked cars.  Teach them how to safely cross the street using only designated crosswalks and being mindful of oncoming traffic.  The Lamar County Sheriff’s Office advises that no children should be allowed to cross the street by themselves.
Parents, remember that children should never be left in the car during the summer.  Cars can become terribly hot in a short amount of time and leaving kids in a hot car may cause a heat stroke or even death.

BICYCLE SAFETY
Wearing a helmet can go a long way toward preventing an injury to kids.  A bike helmet that fits properly sits low on the child’s head and doesn’t rock in any direction, back and forth or sideways.  A helmet should also have safety stickers from the American Society for Testing and Materials.  Dr. Angela Mickalide, program director of the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, told Reader’s Digest that parents may have to get strict with children who don’t want to wear safety equipment, even warning kids that they won’t be allowed to ride their bikes if they are caught without safety gear on. 
Adults can also serve as a great example for kids, Mickalide says, by wearing proper safety gear themselves.

POOL SAFETY FOR KIDS
Families that have pools at home can make the area safer by surrounding the pool with a fence at least four feet high.  The American Academy of Pediatrics says pool gates should be self-closing with a self-securing latch that kids can’t reach.
Once little ones are in the water, remember that accidents happen quickly, and that children should never be left unattended.  A child can drown in a matter of seconds.  It can happen to anyone.
Having rescue equipment nearby, such as a life preserver, a shepherd’s hook (a long pole with a hook on the end), and a telephone is also important to have near the pool.
Monitor infants and toddlers even more closely in and out of the water – by practicing “touch supervision,” which means never being out of arms reach of them at any time.  Just because a child can swim does not mean that an accident cannot and will not happen.
 

STRANGER SAFETY
When your children are out and about, ask them to always check first with an adult before leaving to go somewhere even with leaving with family members,  Kids should also go out with a friend that is known and trusted by the parents.  Children should always be accompanied by an adult when using public restrooms.
Remind children of stranger danger as well.  Teach them that it’s important never to get into a car with, or accept gifts from, someone they don’t know.  If they are in a situation that frightens them, tell them that it’s alright to say “NO” and leave immediately.
LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
PRESS RELEASE
May 5, 2010

Sgt. Stead Walker, Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety offer these timely tips:
 
This summer, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in Georgia will launch the largest and most comprehensive traffic education and enforcement campaign in this state’s history. 

“100 Days of Summer HEAT” will begin on May 17, 2010 with a National “Click It or Ticket” Campaign and continue throughout the Summer with sustained enforcement through Labor Day, ending on September 6 at the conclusion of a national impaired driving mobilization.
 

Almost 1,600 persons die each year on Georgia’s roadways.  On the average, 29 people are killed in motor vehicle crashes in Georgia every week.  With “100 Days of Summer HEAT”, the motoring public will know that Georgia law enforcement officers have a zero tolerance to excessive speeding, impaired driving, and occupant protection violations.  A media campaign will begin prior to the High Visibility Enforcement campaign as a reminder to all drivers of the importance of safe driving before the official campaign is initiated.
 

Even though impaired driving and occupant protection violations will be targeted, a primary focus of this campaign is speed.  The initiative is aimed at reducing the high number of fatality crashes on Georgia’s highway systems and will target aggressive drivers, ticketing speeders, and sending impaired drivers to jail.
 

All summer long, aggressive drivers will be stopped at road checks or pulled over by concentrated patrols on the interstates, secondary corridors, and local highways.  For the “100 Days of Summer HEAT”, police will actively search for speeders in passenger vehicles, eighteen wheelers and motorcycles.
 

LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PRESS RELEASE

January 15, 2010

 

Haitian Earthquake Fraud Alert

Crime Prevention Coordinator and Public Relations Officer Sgt. Stead Walker of the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office along with the FBI would like to inform you the following:

We remind Internet users who receive appeals to donate money in the aftermath of January 11, 2010 earthquake in Haiti to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before responding to those requests.  Past tragedies and natural disasters have prompted individuals with criminal intent to solicit contributions purportedly for a charitable organization and/or a good cause.

Therefore, before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, to include the following:

·         Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming e-mails, including clicking links contained in those messages.

·         Be skeptical of individuals r3epresenting themselves as surviving victims or officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.

·         Verify the legitimacy of nonprofit organizations by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming the group’s existence and its nonprofit status rather than following a purported link to the site.

·         Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses.  Only open attachments from known senders

·         Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf to ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes.

·         Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions: Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.


LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PRESS RELEASE

December 30, 2009

 

Sgt. Stead Walker, Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office offers these timely tips:

ATM MACHINE SAFETY

The holiday season is still here and criminals are still looking for victims.  Customers of the ATM machine are easy targets for criminals.  When using an ATM machine:

·         Be Observant – the most important key to using your ATM card safely is to be observant and look around for any suspicious persons or activity near the ATM machine.  If you see anything that looks suspicious, do not use that machine; find another to use.

·         Have your ATM card in hand and ready for use – it is a good idea to have your ATM card in hand and ready to use the card as your approach the machine.  You will not have to use extra time to look for your card at the ATM machine.

·         Shield your transaction - use your body, hand and/or object to shield the ATM keyboard when you enter your Personal PIN number.  Do not let anyone see your number.

·         Don’t leave your ATM receipt at the machine - take your receipt with you when you leave.

·         Put your cash away immediately, before leaving the ATM machine.  Count your money in the safety of your car.

·         Keep your car secure/locked – lock your car if you have to get out and walk to the ATM machine.  If you use a drive-up ATM machine, lock all doors and be sure the passenger-side windows are rolled up.  When returning to the car, lock all doors and windows when counting your money.

Using the ATM at Night

·         Take another person with you.

·         Park in a well-lighted area, as close to the ATM machine as possible.

·         Do not use the ATM machine if the lights on the machine are not working.

·         If the view of the ATM machine is blocked by overgrown shrubbery or trees, or any other objects, use another ATM machine and notify the bank about the visibility problem.

If anyone has any questions please contact Lamar County Crime Prevention Coordinator Sgt. Stead Walker at 706-641-4903 or email at swalker@lamarcountysheriff.com.  


LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PRESS RELEASE

December 15, 2009

                                  

The Christmas season is here again.  Holidays are probably the busiest and most stressful time of the year, as everyone hosts festivities and searches for the perfect gift. 

 

Thieves like to take advantage of shoppers at this time of year.  They exploit the giving nature of the season and the true meaning of Christmas by taking advantage of the shoppers.  It’s important that they know how to protect themselves from threats that exist on the Web.

 

The Lamar County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Office would like to pass on a few tips to you about “Shopping Online”. 

  • Before you begin shopping online, secure your computer by upgrading your security software.  Every computer should have antivirus software, antispyware, and antispam software, as well as a good firewall.  Firewalls and antivirus software are your first line of defense.  They help keep your computer safe and secure.
  • Keep your personal information private and your password secure.  Don’t respond to any request to “VERIFY” your password or credit card information unless you initiated the contact.  Legitimate businesses won’t ask you for this information.
  • Beware of bargains from unfamiliar companies.  If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Use secure websites for purchases.  Look for the icon of a locked padlock at the bottom of the screen or “https” in the URL address.  They indicate that you are dealing with a secure website.
  • Shop with companies you know and trust.  Check the company background if you’re not familiar with it.
  • Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as one time or multiuse disposable credit cards or use money orders at online stores and auction sites.  Also, make sure you now all the rules and policies of the sites you are using.

Be aware of what you’re buying and know what to expect.


LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
PRESS RELEASE
October 5, 2009

New Design for GA Driver’s Licenses & ID’s
 
Sheriff Larry Waller announced today that the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is preparing to issue new and improved driver’s licenses and identification cards by fall 2009.  The new cards will combat document fraud and protect the identities of Georgia’s citizens by using the latest credentialing technology.   Statewide implementation of the new system is scheduled to take approximately two months with all customer service center locations producing the new cards by the end of November 2009.  New card production began at Conyers, Covington and Locust Grove in September 2009.  All previously issued Georgia licenses and ID’s will remain valid until the expiration date when they will be exchanged for a newly-designed card. The new documents are designed to be more difficult to counterfeit, alter or replicate.  The license will remain roughly the size of a credit card.  The new cards have several security features including ghost photos, a laser-engraved signature over the primary photo to minimize alterations and a tamper resistant coating placed over the card.  The cards will feature machine-readable barcodes that can be used by banks, retailers and other businesses to verify the information printed on the front.  Fees will not increase, and customers will continue to choose between a five-year or ten-year license of ID.For the complete story please visit http://www.dds.ga.gov/.  If you have questions please visit the Lamar County Sheriff’s website at www.lamarcountysheriff.com or call the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office at 770-358-5159.
LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
PRESS RELEASE
July 14, 2009

On Tuesday 4th, 2009 neighborhoods throughout Barnesville – Lamar County, Georgia are invited to join forces with thousands of communities’ nation wide for the “26th. Annual National Night Out” crime and drug prevention event. National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office and Barnesville Police Department, will involve over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, over 37 million people are expected to participate in this very special event.

 

Purpose   -   National Night Out is designed to: (1) heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) generate support for and participation in local anticrime efforts; (3) strengthen neighborhood sprit and police-community partnerships; and (4) send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

 

Time   -   From 5:30 p.m. – until; on August 4th. 2009 the residents in neighborhoods throughout Barnesville – Lamar County and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on their outside lights and spend the evening with neighbors; your emergency personnel will be at the “Ritz Park – Forsyth St. – Barnesville, GA”, as we gather to fight against crime.

 

            The National Project Coordinators, Mr. Matt Peskin said “this is the night for America to stand together to promote Awareness, Safety, and Neighborhood Unity. National Night Out shows the vital importance of sheriff / police and community partnerships. On August 4th, 2009 we invite neighborhoods nationwide to join with us in “Our Fight Against Crime”.

 

Thank you,

Sheriff Larry Waller

Chief Chuck Keadle

 

 

To RSVP a visit from the “National Night Out” convoy or if you have any questions, please contact Sgt. Stead Walker at Office: (770) 358-5159 FAX: (770) 358-5195 or swalker@lamarcountysheriff.com


LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
 PRESS RELEASE
May 14, 2009 

Sheriff Larry Waller annouced today that this morning at 4:30 am 85 law enforcement officers from the Lamar, Spalding, Upson and Monroe County Sheriff's Office; the Barnesville, Thomaston, Milner, and Griffin Police Department; the Multi-County Narcotics Task Force; the Towaliga Circuit District Attorney's Office; the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Georgia Department of Corrections; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Marshal's Service, in coordinaed effort, made arrests for crack cocaine of 19 suspects of illegal drug sales.  Warrants have been taken for 10 others and they will be arrested when apprehended.  Nine vehicles were seized in Lamar and adjacent counties.

The roundup was the result of months of cooperative investigative effort and is yet another testament to the value of cooperation among law enforcement agencies.  Sheriff Waller said, "We have the talent and professionalism in all these agencies.  They will work together and bring equipment, manpower, and expertise to any cooperating agency.  That is the way that it has to be to  successfully wage the war  on crime of all types."

Sheriff Waller also said, "These crack cocaine arrests show the extent of drug violations and are why much attention is focused on crack as well as methamphetamines.  Some of the dealers may deal in both drugs.  Investigations are continuing for meth and crack dealers from the largest to the smallest." 

LAMAR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
 PRESS RELEASE
APRIL 14, 2009 

Deputies of the Lamar County Sheriff's Office, after making a traffic stop on I-75, Monday, arrested two persons, seized 4.5 pounds of marijuana, a motor vehicle and about $4,000. The investigation is continuing. Robertson, black male, DOB 7/20/82, of Warner Robins, GA  was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, driving with a suspended license, and failure to maintain lane. Lester, black female, DOB 2/28/89, of Hawkinsville, GA was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute

Larry Waller, Sheriff
Lamar County Sheriff's Office
121 Roberta Drive, Barnesville, GA 30204
770/358-5159