Sheriff asks commissioners to fund cameras at county parks amid recent fights and vandalism

Sheriff Ezel Brown urged the Newton County Board of Commissioners on April 15 to fund and install surveillance cameras at county recreational parks, saying cameras would help law enforcement investigate fights and deter criminal behavior.

“I'm asking for your help, your support in finding finance so that we can move forward in an attempt to make our parks safe,” Sheriff Brown said, noting recent incidents at Denny Dobbs Park, Stone Road Park and Spring Hill. He said the sheriff's office has exhausted available grant funding and earlier investments in cameras at other locations and is now seeking county support to expand coverage to parks.

Brown said the sheriff’s office operates a real-time crime center that can use camera feeds to identify suspects and support prosecutions. He also said the department has been working with utilities and expects at least one power provider to assist with power at park sites, and that an MOU was under discussion with another provider.

Board response and next steps

Commissioner Edwards and several colleagues said they supported the effort. Commissioner Edwards asked county staff to provide a summary of projected costs and maintenance requirements at the next meeting or the meeting after that; staff said cost estimates for a couple of parks already exist and staff would follow up.

Commissioner Mason, Commissioner Henderson and others indicated support for installing cameras as part of broader park safety measures, including potential park rangers or trained deputies and community engagement. Henderson said cameras and adult supervision were necessary to protect youth and reduce violence.

What was and was not decided

The board discussed funding options but did not approve any expenditure or vote to fund a countywide camera program at this meeting. Commissioners directed staff to develop projected costs, maintenance estimates and likely funding sources for future consideration.