Four individuals have transformed their lives through the Cobb County Drug Treatment Court, graduating with renewed focus, hope, and determination. Judges, court staff, attorneys, elected officials, family, and friends gathered in the Jury Assembly Room at the Cobb Superior Court to celebrate their accomplishments.
The program offers an 18-to-24-month voluntary alternative to incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Participants receive close judicial supervision, individualized treatment, and recovery support to help them rebuild their lives and become productive members of the community.
Reflecting on her journey, one graduate shared: “My experience with Drug Court has been life-changing in a positive way, my hope has been restored, and I am grateful for the program.”
Superior Court Judge Jason D. Marbutt, who presides over the Drug Treatment Court, said, “Drug Treatment Court shows that change is possible for those who commit to it. Our participants work hard to rebuild their lives, and we are here to support them every step of the way.”
Program Coordinator Porsha Winfrey added, “This program meets people where they are and gives them the support they need to make real changes in their lives. These graduates are a reflection of what’s possible when that support is matched with commitment.”
For more information about Cobb County Drug Treatment Court, including ways to get involved or support the program, contact Porsha Winfrey, Program Coordinator, at 770-528-1933 or Porsha.Winfrey@cobbcounty.gov
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The Cobb Board of Commissioners last week approved the first allocation of funds from the National Opioid Settlement, and will be distributing nearly $6 million to a variety of community organizations.
The board voted 5-0 to allocate $5.787 million in funds, that, according to an agenda item from last Tuesday’s meeting, “are restricted and must be used exclusively for opioid remediation purposes as defined by the settlement agreements and applicable state guidance.”
In 2024 Cobb approved a resolution establishing the Cobb County Opioid Abatement Advisory Council that recommended a comprehensive abatement strategy to assist those with opioid addictions.
The Opioid Abatement Settlement Fund includes more than $50 billion in legal settlements from 2021-26 with opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacy chains, with the funding earmarked to treat addiction and to assist recovery and prevention efforts.
Cobb’s funding comes directly from the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust, which was established as a subsidiary in 2022 to distribute and manage funding throughout the state for an 18-year period.
In the 2026-29 funding cycle, the following organizations will be receiving grants in the indicated amounts in Cobb County:
Center for Young Adult Addiction & Recovery, Kennesaw State University – $98,721
Cobb Collaborative – $57,394
Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, Cobb County Jail – $174,720
Cobb County Superior Courts – $1,258,500
Davis Direction Foundation – $1,609,841
Harbor Springs Counseling Services – $1,648,942
Highland Rivers Foundation – $500,000
Life University, Inc. – $26,820
WestCare Georgia, Inc. – $87,855
YouthCentric, Inc. – $324,820
The agenda item states that “these projects collectively address multiple settlement-approved categories including prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support. Proposed activities include medication-assisted treatment for indigent individuals, residential treatment expansion for mothers, peer recovery coaching, sober living scholarships, jail discharge planning, youth prevention programming, naloxone and fentanyl test strip distribution, and community resiliency initiatives.”
The third-largest recipient, Cobb County Superior Courts, announced later last week that it plans to use the funding to expand the Cobb Accountability Courts, which “serve individuals charged with felonies who are diagnosed with moderate to severe substance use disorders, including participants with co-occurring mental health conditions.”
The courts will “utilize a plan that integrates multiple layers of intervention. Treatment services include opioid withdrawal management, access to medication for addiction treatment (MAT/MOUD) through partnerships with a local physician and pharmacy, and up to ten hours per week of evidence-based group and individual counseling,” according to a release issued by Cobb Superior Court.
The programs also plan to expand recovery support to address housing instability, which the court calls “one of the greatest barriers to sustained recovery.
“Through partnerships with five sober living programs in Cobb County, eligible participants may receive up to 90 days of safe, structured, and sober housing while working toward financial independence. Stable housing has been shown to significantly strengthen engagement in treatment and improve long-term outcomes.”
“The Accountability Courts stand at the critical intersection of the justice system, public safety, and rehabilitation of individuals in crisis,” said Ann Harris, Chief Judge of Superior Court. “By using these settlement funds to expand treatment and provide stable housing, we are actively working to break the cycle of addiction, reduce recidivism, and make our entire community safer.”
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The pursuit of justice is at the heart of every strong and thriving community. It shapes how we treat one another, how we uphold fairness, and how we respond to wrongdoing.
The Office of Cobb District Attorney Sonya F. Allen is proud to present the “What Justice Means to Me” Art Contest—an opportunity for students in kindergarten through 12th grade to explore, express, and reflect on the meaning of justice through creativity.
Justice can be seen in many ways: in fairness, accountability, equality, compassion, and truth. Through this contest, participants are encouraged to share their personal perspectives and experiences, using art as a powerful voice to inspire thought and conversation. Each piece submitted represents not only artistic talent, but also a unique vision of what justice looks like in our world today. Deadline for entries is May 1, 2026.
We believe that art has the power to educate, unite, and spark meaningful dialogue. By engaging in this creative process, you can help strengthen our shared commitment to justice and the values that support it.
Original artwork must be submitted for this contest. Only two-dimensional artwork (drawing, painting, collage, mixed media, printmaking, or original photography) will be accepted.
The selected winning pieces will be recognized for their originality and creativity, with first, second, and third place entries earning the opportunity to be featured within the District Attorney’s Office. All submissions must adhere to guidelines listed (see attached).
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An East Cobb resident who runs a medical diagnostics lab in the Cumberland area is facing three felony counts of Medicaid fraud.
Maged Ahmad Awad has been indicted by a Cobb Superior Court grand jury on three counts of medical assistance fraud, according to court records.
The records show that Awad was indicted on Feb. 26 for allegedly receiving payments from the Georgia Medicaid system in “amounts greater than entitled” for genetic screening tests after “engaging in a fraudulent scheme.”
The indictment states that K & S Clinical Diagnostics, located on North Park Place off Windy Hill Road, received more than $307,000 in payments for those tests between March 18, 2022 and June 24, 2023.
But the indictment—which follows an investigation by the Georgia Attorney General’s Office—doesn’t indicate how much of that total is beyond what is allowed.
The day after the indictment, a bench warrant was issued for Awad, 61, according to court records. He was charged at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center on March 11 and was released later that day after posting a bond of $110,220, according to Cobb Sheriff’s Office booking reports.
Awad’s wife, Safaa Awad, is listed as the owner of the diagnostic business, according to the indictment, which said that he is the chief executive officer who “oversaw all day-to-day activities of K & S and who was responsible for finalizing the tests that were charged to Medicaid.”
Staff information on the K & S website doesn’t include Safaa Awad but lists Maged Awad as the president and CEO, and states that he is a medical doctor with a PhD who formerly was a biochemistry professor.
K & S was enrolled as an independent laboratory services provider in the Georgia Medicaid program, according to the indictment.
Services provided by such entities can be reimbursed only via requests by approved medical personnel, including physicians, physician’s assistants, nurses and midwives.
According to the indictment, Awad listed three physicians on documents, falsely claiming they had ordered the genetic tests when they had not done so, then billed Georgia Medicaid for reimbursement.
Each of the payments are listed in separate exhibits in the indictment, and they typically range between $3,000 and $7,000.
The indictment states Georgia Medicaid “made payments for these claims by electronically transferring payments into a bank account owned and controlled” by Safaa Awad, who is otherwise not named in the indictment.
Last year the owner of a behavioral therapy business in Brookhaven received a 10-year sentence after pleading guilty to Medicaid fraud totaling more than $300,000.
An initial court date for Awad has not been scheduled before Cobb Superior Court Judge Kimberly A. Childs.
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Cobb County Government will open the state’s first drive-through court service on Monday, Feb. 23, offering the public a faster, more convenient way to pay fines.
The State and Magistrate Court Clerk’s Office Express will operate from 122 Waddell Street, Marietta. Individuals will be able to pay for traffic citations, school bus arm violations, probation fees, fines and restitution for cases that do not require a court appearance.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at noon Monday, Feb 23.
“Modern courts must meet people where they are,” said State Court Clerk Tahnicia Phillips, who developed the concept. “The Clerk’s Office Express provides a faster, more convenient way for people to resolve their cases and get back to their day.”
The drive-through express service comes at a critical time, as the county has seen an increase in cases following the installation of 150 school bus cameras. While online payment options remain available, the drive-through service removes barriers such as transportation, parking, and long wait times. Individuals should bring their citation or case number, a photo ID, and a debit or credit card to make payments. Court staff will provide receipts.
“We are proud to provide a service that makes court access easier for our community,” said Phillips. “We hope it sets a precedent for other courts and shows that innovation doesn’t always require new technology.”
The Clerk’s Office Express will operate 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. It will be operating out of the former Cobb Purchasing Department Building.
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Information and photo submitted by Cobb County Government:
The Cobb Judicial Circuit was thrilled to welcome 88 fifth-grade students from Timber Ridge Elementary School to the Cobb County Superior Court on Friday morning. This initiative is designed to demystify the judicial process for local youth by giving them hands-on experience in the courtroom.
The immersive field trip offered students more than just a tour; it provided a front-row seat to justice in action. Under the guidance of court staff and volunteer local attorneys, the students acted out a full mock trial involving a bicycle theft. The fifth graders stepped into every critical role in the courtroom, serving as the jury, attorneys, witnesses, and defendant.
Judge Kellie S. Hill presided over the mock trial, offering the students real-time feedback and instruction from the bench. “Superior Court is a place where everyone’s voice matters. Through programs like Courtroom to Classroom, we help children see how fairness, listening, and asking questions can make a real difference and inspire the next generation of leaders in our community,” said Judge Hill.
In addition to the mock trial, the students were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the judicial complex, including a visit to the holding cells and other secure areas of the courthouse.
The Courtroom to Classroom mock trial program is suitable for fourth- and fifth-grade groups and is offered, space permitting, in the courtroom. Educators interested in scheduling a visit for the 2025 – 2026 school year are encouraged to contact Erin Mendez at Erin.Mendez@cobbcounty.gov for more information.
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The Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court (VATC) graduated three veteran participants during a 9:30 a.m. ceremony Friday, Feb. 6, at the Cobb County Superior Court Building, 70 Haynes Street.
The graduation brings the total number of local participants who have completed the 18- to 24-month intensive treatment program to 72. The Cobb County VATC began June 13, 2014, under the leadership of Judge Reuben Green, joining a nationwide surge of accountability courts specifically tailored for veterans. The program addresses post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and other mental health issues through counseling, job training, and additional supportive services.
Judge Green, a U.S Marine Corps veteran, served as a judge through 2020 and passed away in 2025. The VATC honored his legacy during Friday’s ceremony, unveiling a painted portrait and placing a custom embroidered streamer on the Marine Corps flag. His portrait will be displayed in the VATC, courtroom 6100, in Superior Court.
“As a Marine, Judge Green brought his passion for helping military servicemembers in need into the courtroom,” said Superior Court Judge Robert D. Leonard. “He was a trailblazer with a reputation for excellence and for changing lives. Veterans Court is his legacy.”
The mission of the Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court is to increase public safety by reducing recidivism, alleviating the tax burden of incarcerating law-breaking veterans, and helping participants become productive members of the community. The program provides intensive case management to address mental health issues while offering the familiarity of structure and accountability similar to military service.
Participants receive alcohol and drug treatment through contracted treatment providers and the Department of Veterans Affairs. When a participant is stable in their recovery and treatment, the assigned VATC team addresses other issues that hinder success, such as unemployment, lack of stable housing, the need for continuing education, or the benefits of family counseling.
One unique aspect of the VATC is the Mentor Program. Each participant is paired with a veteran mentor who understands the challenges faced by veterans working toward program completion. VATC mentors must be honorably discharged from military service, have no prior criminal record, and commit to assisting at least one veteran for the duration of the 18-month VATC program.
The three veteran participants graduated from the VATC with their mentors by their sides. These veterans turned what once seemed like a dismal path into a very bright future for themselves and their families.
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Four individuals have transformed their lives through the Cobb County DrugTreatment Court, graduating with renewed focus, hope, and determination. Judges, court staff, attorneys, elected officials, family, and friends gathered in the Jury Assembly Room at Cobb Superior Court to celebrate their accomplishments.
The program offers an 18-to-24-month voluntary alternative to incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Participants receive close judicial supervision, individualized treatment, and recovery support to help them rebuild their lives and become productive members of the community.
The graduates achieved success in education, family, and sobriety. One participant also reunited with her children, showing the program’s profound impact. Their journeys are a reminder that supporting recovery strengthens families and communities alike.
Reflecting on her journey, one graduate shared: “DrugTreatment Court helped me find my way back home. I didn’t have the resources or accountability I needed to recover, and previous attempts hadn’t worked. This program gave me the tools to stay sober and held me accountable for my actions. In the past two years, I’ve learned more about myself than ever before. Thanks to drug court, I was able to get my children back. I came here broken; I leave whole, ready to continue learning, growing, and thriving in life.”
Superior Court Judge Jason D. Marbutt, who presides over the DrugTreatment Court, said: “DrugTreatment Court shows that change is possible for those who commit to it. Our participants work hard to rebuild their lives, and we are here to support them every step of the way.”
Program Coordinator Porsha Winfrey added: “Being part of this program is a privilege because it shows firsthand that change is possible. Watching participants overcome challenges, rebuild their lives, and set new goals reminds me why this work matters. These four graduates are proof that with support, dedication, and perseverance, people can create a brighter future for themselves and their families.”
For more information about Cobb County DrugTreatment Court, including ways to get involved or support the program, contact Porsha Winfrey, Program Coordinator, at 770-528-1933 or Porsha.Winfrey@cobbcounty.gov.
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The Cobb Judicial Circuit continued its commitment to community outreach this Friday, turning the courthouse into a classroom for 230 fifth-grade students from East Side Elementary School. As part of the ongoing “Courtroom to Classroom” initiative, students traded their textbooks for a real-life legal experience.
Friday’s session was a collaborative effort from the bench, featuring Superior Court Judges Jason D. Marbutt and Sonja N. Brown and Probate Court Chief Judge Kelli L. Wolk and Judge Tara C. Riddle. The program bridges the gap between the community and the judiciary by allowing students to participate directly in the legal process. Guided by court staff and local attorneys, the East Side students took on the responsibilities of the justice system — serving as prosecutors, defense counsel, witnesses, and jurors — during a mock trial centered on a bicycle theft case.
Judge Marbutt, a former educator, emphasized the impact of seeing the justice system up close. “As a former teacher, I enjoy the opportunity to educate students about the courts,” Judge Marbutt said. “The Courtroom to Classroom program is a great and fun way to get kids experience with the justice system.”
Judge Sonja Brown noted how the experience transforms abstract lessons into reality. “It is wonderful to see the law come to life for these students,” Judge Sonja Brown said. “They aren’t just reading about a trial; they are living it, and that experience fosters a deeper understanding of fairness that textbooks alone cannot provide.”
Beyond the verdict, the field trip offered students a comprehensive look at courthouse operations. The group explored the infrastructure of the judicial complex, including a visit to the secure holding areas, providing a stark and memorable reality of the justice system.
Judge Wolk highlighted the importance of transparency and judicial interaction with the community. “Hosting East Side Elementary was a reminder of why we serve,” Judge Wolk added. “By inviting the community in, especially our students, we build trust in our institutions and show them that the courtroom is a place for justice.”
For Judge Riddle, the event was an opportunity to foster early respect for civic duty. “These fifth graders asked insightful questions and took their roles seriously,” said Judge Riddle. “Programs like this are essential because they plant the seeds of good citizenship and show our youth that the justice system is accessible to them.”
The “Courtroom to Classroom” mock trial program is available for fourth- and fifth-grade classes, subject to docket availability. Schools and educators interested in participating in future sessions during the 2025-2026 school year should contact Erin Mendez at Erin.Mendez@cobbcounty.gov.
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The Cobb Judicial Circuit announces the retirement of Judge A. Gregory Poole, effective January 2, 2026. A lifelong Marietta resident, Judge Poole leaves behind a distinguished legacy spanning nearly 23 years of service to the community where he was born and raised.
“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of the Cobb Judicial Circuit as a Superior Court Judge for the past thirteen years and as a Cobb County Juvenile Court Judge for the previous ten years,” Judge Poole said in his letter to the Governor.
Judge Poole was elected to the Superior Court in July 2012 and took office on January 1, 2013. His tenure on the bench is highlighted by his service as Chief Judge from 2023 to 2025, during which his steady leadership was instrumental in maintaining the court’s integrity and efficiency amid the complex demands of a growing county. His commitment to judicial stewardship extended statewide through his leadership on the Council of Superior Court Judges’ Mandatory Continuing Judicial Education Committee.
Before his judicial service, Judge Poole practiced law after his admission to the Georgia Bar in 1985. His dedication to the legal profession extended beyond the courtroom; he served as President of the Georgia Council of Juvenile Court Judges and is a Trustee of the Georgia Institute of Continuing Judicial Education. He is an emeritus member of the Charles Waltner Family Law American Inn of Court, where he served as Master of the Bench and on the Executive Committee.
Judge Poole is a graduate of local public schools, Presbyterian College (1982), and the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University (1985). He is married to Lucia Poole, Assistant Principal at Harrison High School, and they have six children together. Following his retirement, Judge Poole has requested appointment as a Senior Superior Court Judge by Governor Kemp and plans to offer his services as a mediator.
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Families, friends, and community supporters gathered at Laurel Park on Saturday for the Cobb County Drug Treatment Court’s Second Annual Summer BBQ. Program participants, graduates, staff, sponsors, and community partners came together to celebrate recovery, progress, and second chances. The event drew more than 80 attendees who enjoyed games, face painting, basketball, sack races, and time at the playground, while some relaxed by the lake and watched the ducks.
The Marietta Metro Rotary Club played a central role in making the event possible. Their generous sponsorship provided a full catered BBQ, and members volunteered their time to serve food and assist with activities. The Rotary Club has been a long-standing supporter of the Cobb County Accountability Courts and continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to helping program participants succeed. A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds and Monitoring also volunteered at the event and remain strong supporters of the program.
“The Drug Treatment Court is more than an accountability program; it is a lifeline,” said Judge Jason D. Marbutt, who presides over the program. “Events like this remind our program participants that they are not alone and that recovery is a journey best walked with family, friends, and a supportive community.”
The Cobb County Drug Treatment Court gives individuals struggling with substance use the opportunity to rebuild their lives through counseling, recovery support, and a structured program designed to promote lasting sobriety and stability.
“This event gives our program participants and graduates the chance to celebrate their progress with the people who matter most, their families,” said Program Coordinator Porsha Winfrey. “It also allows the community to see firsthand the incredible changes that are happening in the lives of those in our program.”
The afternoon captured the spirit of the program: healing, resilience, and the belief that recovery is possible. Cobb County Drug Treatment Court remains committed to partnerships that help program participants thrive and families grow stronger together.
For more information about Cobb County Drug Treatment Court, including ways to get involved or support the program, contact Porsha Winfrey, Program Coordinator, at 770-528-1933 or Porsha.Winfrey@cobbcounty.gov.
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John Cristadoro said he’s “a target by those who are trying to tear down Cobb schools” and accused them of “fake outrage.”
Cobb Board of Education vice chairman John Cristadoro has settled a civil lawsuit filed against him, his business and another party by a client on charges of fraud and misusing business funds.
In the consent judgment filed Wednesday, Cristadoro and his advertising, marketing and events company, Alliance Activation LLC, were ordered to repay the client $225,000 plus future interest, most of it in three business days.
The consent judgment noted that the business’ policies included “using client funds to pay Alliance’s own operating expenses at times when Alliance was experiencing a cash flow shortage.” Those policies were crafted by Cristadoro, as the president and CEO, and a bookkeeper, according to Wednesday’s filing.
That filing further states that “Cristadoro, without Plaintiff’s consent, authorized use of Plaintiff’s funds for payment of Alliance’s operating expenses and credit card statements to cover a cash flow shortage.”
Some of those statements, according to the consent judgment, “included non-business transactions for Cristadoro’s personal benefit.”
Cristadoro, an East Cobb resident in his first year on the school board, told East Cobb News in response to a story published Tuesday that the lawsuit, which was filed in Fulton State Court, has no bearing on his duties in public office.
“It’s a personal case from a personal business, both of which have nothing to do with serving students, other than being a target by those who are trying to tear down Cobb schools,” said Cristadoro.
The case came to light Monday at a Fulton court hearing in which Cristadoro and the client, an insurance company, attempted to seal court documents about the settlement.
Four constituents of Cristadoro’s in Cobb school board Post 5 in East Cobb filed a motion before the hearing on Monday to keep the records public, saying it’s a matter of transparency given his status as an elected official.
Sagicor Life Insurance Company said in a March 2024 lawsuit that it paid Cristadoro and Alliance Activation, the company he founded in 2012, a $250,000 sponsorship fee for advertising at sporting venues in Tampa, Fla. (original lawsuit here).
Sagicor said in the suit that Cristadoro, Alliance Activation and the other defendant, named John Doe in the filings, was to have turned the money over to a third-party vendor to provide the sponsorship services.
But that never happened, and the consent judgment states that Sagicor hasn’t been repaid.
(Alliance Activation is located in Sandy Springs, hence the legal action in Fulton County.)
Watching the Funds-Cobb leader Heather Tolley-Bauer.
The charges included fraud, theft, breach of contract and fiduciary duty, civil racketeering and gross negligence, claims that Cristadoro initially denied in court filings.
According to Wednesday’s filing, Alliance Activation will be allowed to keep $25,000 in commission charges.
In his response to East Cobb News, Cristadoro said that “I am proud of the business we built and happy we’ve been able to negotiate a successful next chapter for the partners and employees. I learned a lot about people and serving customers which are lessons I’ll use for the rest of my life—especially in public service.”
Late Wednesday afternoon, he issued a similar response to “members of the press” from a business e-mail address, and asked that they contact him there about the lawsuit, instead of his official school board e-mail address.
Cristadoro also was asked by East Cobb News what he thought about the motion that was filed by the four individuals—including a Cobb schools financial watchdog, Heather Tolley-Bauer of Watching the Funds-Cobb (you can read that here)—and a statement by the Cobb County Democratic Committee on Tuesday that he resign.
“What other individuals do in their search for significance is their decision as they try to survive by creating fake outrage,” Cristadoro said. “Regarding the other nonsense [the CCDC demand], that doesn’t warrant a response.”
Cristadoro, whose two children attend Walton High School, is a Republican and part of a 4-3 GOP majority on the school board, which in recent years has clashed along partisan lines on a number of issues.
Tolley-Bauer and others co-founded Watching the Funds-Cobb in 2021 to scrutinize Cobb County School District finances, budgeting and spending, saying it was a non-partisan organization.
But some of those prominently involved in the group are deeply involved in local Democratic politics.
Co-founder Stacy Efrat is now a Cobb County Democratic Party appointee to the Cobb Board of Elections. Laura Judge, who served in former Democratic Cobb commissioner Jerica Richardson’s “citizen cabinet,” lost to Cristadoro last year in the general election for the Post 5 seat.
Tolley-Bauer has supported Democratic school board candidates in Post 5 in 2020 and Judge last year.
Watching the Funds-Cobb has been critical of spending decisions made by the Cobb school district administration, including a $50 million special events center that was eventually scuttled, but has not previously scrutinized the activities of elected board members.
Tolley-Bauer told East Cobb News Tuesday that neither Efrat nor Judge is currently involved the group. She said she was told last week about the lawsuit against Cristadoro by “a concerned citizen” and as she was looking through the case files, noticed that “they asked to seal something.”
An attorney with an Atlanta law firm drafted a motion in time for Monday’s hearing, at which Fulton State Court Judge Wesley Tailor refused a request to seal court documents, saying the public interest outweighs privacy matters.
“This is an issue of transparency,” Tolley-Bauer said, adding that one of Cristadoro’s primary talking points in his campaign was his background as a businessman.
“He has a fiduciary responsibility to his constituents. We have a right to know whether or not he can be trusted with those responsibilities.”
Tolley-Bauer admitted that she’s aware of how the partisan “optics” might look. She said she’s voted for Republican Cobb commissioner JoAnn Birrell and also “accidentally” voted for David Banks, a former GOP school board member whom Cristadoro succeeded, “when I first moved here.”
But “this literally was an argument for transparency,” Tolley-Bauer. “If people don’t care to know [about the lawsuit], then I respect that. But the facts are the facts. And the taxpayer deserves to know.”
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UPDATED: The lawsuit has been settled, and Cristadoro has commented on the matter to East Cobb News.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
The vice chairman of the Cobb Board of Education is a defendant in a civil lawsuit in Fulton County, along with his business, for claims of theft, fraud, conspiracy and other charges.
On Monday a Fulton State Court judge declined to seal consent filings in the lawsuit, filed by Sagicor Insurance Co. against Alliance Activation LLC, Cristadoro, and another unnamed defendant.
That decision came after a late motion by four individuals, including a Cobb schools financial watchdog, to keep the court records public. Both parties had asked that the settlement details be kept private.
Cristadoro, of Post 5 in East Cobb, runs Alliance Activation, an advertising, events and marketing firm, which according to the lawsuit was paid a $250,000 sponsorship fee by Sagicor in 2023 for advertising at sporting venues in Tampa, Fla.
The lawsuit claims that the money paid to Cristadoro’s company, in five installments, was not passed on to another vendor, as agreed to in the contract, to perform the advertising services. Sagicor claims in the suit that Cristadoro, Alliance Activation and the other defendant, named John Doe in the filings, kept the money and have not returned it.
Sagicor is alleging that Alliance Activation and Cristadoro also committed breach of contract and fiduciary duty, civil RICO violations and negligence. The suit seeks the full reimbursement of the $250,000, plus legal costs and an unspecified amount in damages.
Cristadoro has denied the claims in court filings. Alliance Activation has offices in Sandy Springs, and still lists Sagicor as a client on its website.
In their motion, filed early Monday morning, the four individuals claimed that they were responding to the parties taking the “extraordinary step of sealing the judgment in a case from public view.”
As Post 5 constituents, they continued, they “have a vested public interest in the terms of this consent judgment, including any admissions made by Cristadoro as to his liability in this case.”
Judge Wesley B. Tailor ruled he would not grant a motion to seal the records, and set another court date for for Dec. 1 unless the parties come to an agreement.
A parent with two children in the Walton High School attendance zone, Cristadoro, a Republican, is in his first year on the school board, after being elected in 2024 to succeed the retiring David Banks.
One of the four individuals making the motion to keep the court records public is Heather Tolley-Bauer, an East Cobb resident and founder of Watching the Funds-Cobb, which has been critical of Cobb County School District financial issues. They’ve hired an attorney with an Atlanta law firm, saying they’re pushing for transparency in a matter involving an elected school official.
Heather Tolley-Bauer
The motion filed Monday by Tolley-Bauer, Stacey Owens, Jennifer Simon and Maggie Dougherty said that “Cristadoro regularly highlights his business acumen and his entrepreneurial experience in campaign materials, Facebook posts, and interviews with the local press.”
As an elected official with a fiduciary responsibility, and “as a practical matter, Cristadoro often serves as the deciding vote on multi-million dollar contracts procured on behalf of the Cobb County taxpayers,” states the motion, which also alleges that “Cristadoro used his client’s money to pay off Alliance’s creditors and, it would appear, Cristadoro’s personal expenses.
“This was not a one-time event. Alliance’s bank statements show that he paid the same credit card company multiple times in the same month. In short, it would appear to be undisputed that Cristadoro, a fiduciary over his client’s funds, misappropriated a significant amount of money from his client.”
Cristadoro’s attorney objected to the late filing of the motion, saying it was politically motivated. Laura Judge, a Democrat who ran against Cristadoro last year, also has been involved with Watching the Funds-Cobb, but is not named in the third-party motion.
Another Watching the Funds-Cobb founder is Stacy Efrat, also an East Cobb resident and member of the Cobb Board of Elections and Registration who was appointed by the Cobb Democratic Committee.
Tolley-Bauer has said that she’s not a political activist and that her group is non-partisan. But in a 2021 East Cobb Newsprofile of Watching the Funds-Cobb, she acknowledged she was involved in a fundraiser for a Democratic Cobb school board candidate challenging Banks in 2020. She also contributed financially to Judge’s campaign.
East Cobb News has left messages with Cristadoro and Tolley-Bauer seeking comment.
Republicans hold a 4-3 majority on the school board, and all three GOP candidates on the 2024 ballot, including Cristadoro, won their races.
On Tuesday the Cobb Democratic Committee called for Cristadoro to resign, saying that the court documents make “him no longer fit to continue serving on the school board. His judgment cannot be trusted when it comes to handling taxpayer funds or transparency with the public.”
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An East Cobb man indicted last year for the death of his wife due to what prosecutors alleged was an extreme case of neglect has been sentenced to life in prison.
Cobb Superior Court Judge Kellie Hill handed down the sentence after a jury found Gary Williams guilty of felony murder and neglect at his trial earlier this week, according to the Cobb District Attorney’s Office.
The DA’s office said that Williams, 66, badly disregarded the needs of his disabled wife, Addreinne Gordon, to the point that her body was covered in sores and lesions and her bed was blackened with human waste.
Gordon was 66 years old when she was admitted to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital on Nov. 9, 2021, “and placed on maximum-level life support,” according to a release from the Cobb DA’s office. “She died the following day from blood poisoning.”
Williams was Gordon’s caregiver at a home in the Lake Fjord neighborhood that is owned by her estate.
According to the DA’s office, Gordon was visited by Adult Protective Services at the hospital before her death and “reported numerous injuries,” according to the release.
An arrest warrant for Williams stated that Gordon was observed with “multiple and severe bed sores, extremely matted hair, untrimmed toenails and fingernails, feces under and around the toenails and a large, deep laceration to the left hip area.”
Williams was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in late July 2022, then was taken into custody at the Cobb Adult Detention Center, and has been held there without bond ever since, according to Cobb Sheriff’s Office booking reports.
“This case was not about how she died—it was about how she was forced to live,” Cobb DA Sonya Allen said in the release, referring to Gordon.
“She suffered slowly, trapped in a body she could not care for, completely dependent on the one person who vowed to protect her. The only person who could have given her dignity, safety, and comfort instead allowed her to endure a living torture until she died.”
According to her obituary, Gordon worked for the Xerox Corp. for 30 years until her retirement in 2008, and is survived by a daughter, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
“Addreinne, who was affectionately known to her family as ‘Honey,’ was known as a giver with a wide smile and huge personality. She loved cooking and entertaining and celebrated every holiday with excitement. Her favorite times included being with her family, especially her grandchildren.
“Her laugh and zeal for life was contagious to all who knew her.”
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Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Friday issued an executive order suspending Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor while she faces charges of destroying government records and violating her oath of office.
Kemp issued the executive order after a three-member review commission he appointed determined that Taylor’s indictment by a Cobb grand jury “does relate to and adversely affect the administration of the office of Clerk of the Superior Court.”
If she is convicted, Taylor could be removed from office. Earlier this week, she pleaded not guilty to two counts of destroying government records and two counts of violating her oath of office.
Taylor, a Democrat first elected in 2020, was indicted July 31 after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation conducted a probe into the matter following allegations that Taylor tried to direct an employee to delete government e-mails and financial records in response to an open records request in late 2022.
Taylor had come under fire for personally pocketing $425,000 in passport fees, on top of her $170,000 annual salary.
Under state law, court clerks are allowed to personally keep such funds. But Rebecca Keaton, Taylor’s predecessor, forwarded some of those monies to the county’s general fund.
Maya Curry, who worked in the clerk’s office, said Taylor ordered her to destroy records about the passport application fees when The Atlanta Journal-Constitution filed an open records request seeking that information.
According to Curry, Taylor said that “we’re just going to Donald Trump this thing,” a reference to deleting any files or records that would be germane to an open records request.
The Attorney General’s Office is leading the legal proceedings after Cobb officials, including judges, recused themselves from the case.
Taylor’s attorney, former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, hasn’t commented on the case.
After Friday’s announcement of Taylor’s suspension, Cobb County government issued a statement saying “we respect the Governor’s order. Since the Clerk of Superior Court is a constitutional officer and not under the authority of the Board of Commissioners, we will not be commenting further. Our focus remains on ensuring that county services continue without interruption.”
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Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has appointed a three-person commission to review an indictment against Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor.
Taylor was indicted last month by a Cobb grand jury with two counts of destroying government records and two counts of violating her oath of office related to her office’s handling of passport fees.
An executive order signed by Kemp on Thursday gave the commission 14 days to provide a written report recommending whether Taylor should be suspended from office while her legal case proceeds.
The commission will be asked to determine if the indictment affects Taylor’s ability to carry out her duties and if “the rights and interests of the public are adversely affected” by the indictment as a result.
Superior Court clerks in Georgia oversee the management of court documents and records, including real estate transactions, and are elected constitutional officers on a partisan basis.
The commission members selected by Kemp are Keith Blackwell, a retired Georgia Supreme Court justice, and two county court clerks, Tim Harper of Banks County and Rhett Walker of Dodge County. Blackwell served in a non-partisan position, while Harper and Walker are both Democrats.
Taylor, a Democrat first elected in 2020, was indicted July 31 after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation conducted a probe into the matter following allegations that Taylor tried to direct an employee to delete government e-mails and financial records in response to an open records request in late 2022.
Taylor had come under fire for personally pocketing $425,000 in passport fees, on top of her $170,000 annual salary.
Under state law, court clerks are allowed to personally keep such funds. But Rebecca Keaton, Taylor’s predecessor, forwarded some of those monies to the county’s general fund.
Maya Curry, who worked in the clerk’s office, said Taylor ordered her to destroy records about the passport application fees when The Atlanta Journal-Constitution filed an open records request seeking that information.
Curry’s allegations (you can read her attorney’s letter here) include a comment by Taylor that “we’re just going to Donald Trump this thing,” a reference to deleting any files or records that would be germane to an open records request.
The Attorney General’s Office is leading the legal proceedings after Cobb officials, including judges, recused themselves from the case.
Taylor has hired former Gov. Roy Barnes to represent her.
She could be suspended by Kemp without pay upon a recommendation of the review commission. If she is convicted, Taylor would be removed from office, and she would be reinstated if acquitted.
Taylor is facing an arraignment in Superior Court on Sept. 2.
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A Cobb grand jury has indicted Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor following an investigation into her alleged conduct over the handling of passport fees processed by her office.
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr said in a release Thursday that Taylor has been charged with two counts of destroying government records and two counts of violating her oath of office—all felony counts.
The indictment by a Cobb grand jury comes after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation conducted a probe into the matter following allegations that Taylor tried to direct an employee to delete government e-mails and financial records in response to an open records request in late 2022.
Taylor had come under fire for personally pocketing $425,000 in passport fees, on top of her $170,000 annual salary.
Under state law, court clerks are allowed to personally keep such funds. But Rebecca Keaton, Taylor’s predecessor, forwarded some of those monies to the county’s general fund.
The Cobb Superior Court Clerk is an elected constitutional officer, one of four in the county.
Maya Curry, who worked in the clerk’s office, said Taylor ordered her to destroy records about the passport application fees when The Atlanta Journal-Constitution filed an open records request seeking that information.
Curry’s allegations (you can read her attorney’s letter here) include a comment by Taylor that “we’re just going to Donald Trump this thing,” a reference to deleting any files or records that would be germane to an open records request.
Carr’s office went to a Cobb grand jury with the GBI’s findings after the Cobb District Attorney’s Office recused itself. Cobb judges also recused themselves, and a retired Douglas County judge presided over the grand jury’s presentment in Cobb Superior Court.
“Georgians deserve honesty and transparency from their elected officials, and anything less undermines public trust,” Carr said in a statement. “Any attempts to conceal or destroy government records are serious allegations that cannot be ignored, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
Taylor has hired former Gov. Roy Barnes to represent her, and he has declined comment.
Taylor is a Democrat who was first elected in 2020, ousting Keaton from office. Even after the passport issue became public, and a judicial emergency was declared over her implementation of a new court online filing system, Taylor easily won re-election in 2024.
She beat a crowded field in the Democratic primary and then prevailed over Republican Deborah Dance, a former Cobb County Attorney, in the general election.
After Taylor’s indictment Thursday, Cobb District Attorney Sonya Allen issued a statement, saying that “we recognize the significance and understand the public’s concern, however we are not involved in this prosecution. Our office remains focused on fulfilling our responsibilities and serving the people of Cobb County with integrity and impartiality.”
She referred further inquiries to the Attorney General’s Office.
Cobb government issued the following statement:
“We respect the judicial process and will allow it to run its course. Regardless of the outcome, Cobb County is committed to ensuring residents continue to receive efficient and effective services through the Clerk of Superior Court’s office.”
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In a powerful display of unity and service, five Cobb County judges—Kellie S. Hill, Angela Z. Brown, Sonja N. Brown, Ashley Palmer, and Mellori Lumpkin-Dawson came together to support Channel 2 Action News’ annual Stuff the Bus campaign, now in its 22nd year. The campaign, in partnership with the Children’s Restoration Network, collects backpacks and school supplies for children living in foster care, group homes, or facing homelessness throughout metro Atlanta.
Channel 2 Action News received its first 1,000 backpacks this week at its Midtown Atlanta studio, thanks to generous community partners and supporters like the judges representing part of the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations and multiple classes of courts in Cobb County.
Their participation adds a powerful symbol of leadership and civic responsibility to this beloved campaign. These judges not only don the black robes of justice but also serve through the colors of their historic Black Greek-letter organizations—pink and green, red and white, and beyond—representing decades of community engagement and public service.
In addition to their professional responsibilities, these judges remain active in their churches, their sororities, and local outreach programs, continually investing in the communities they serve both inside and outside the courtroom.
The Stuff the Bus drive, benefiting the Children’s Restoration Network, helps provide school supplies to thousands of children across metro Atlanta. Volunteers describe the joy of giving as “Christmas in July,” with students excitedly unzipping brand-new backpacks filled with pencils, pens, paper, and hope.
“Stuff the Bus” is a long-standing community initiative spearheaded by Channel 2 Action News in partnership with the Children’s Restoration Network. The campaign works to provide school supplies to children experiencing homelessness or living in foster care, ensuring they have what they need to start the school year strong. The Children’s Restoration Network serves homeless children and mothers throughout metro Atlanta, offering programs that focus on education, enrichment, and empowerment.
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The Juvenile Court of Cobb County proudly announces that Adolphus Graves, Juvenile Court Administrator, has been honored with the prestigious Exemplary Leadership in Youth Justice Award from theNational Resource Center for the Transformation of Youth Justice. This national recognition celebrates his unwavering commitment to collaborative reform, innovation, and compassionate leadership within the youth justice system.
The Exemplary Leadership in Youth Justice Award recognizes a distinguished agency leader who goes beyond expectations to create inclusive, supportive environments where youth, families, and staff alike are empowered to thrive. Honorees are visionary changemakers—leaders who not only navigate the complexities of the justice system but actively transform it through accountability, advocacy, and forward-thinking solutions.
Mr. Graves exemplifies these ideals through more than two decades of leadership in the criminal justice arena. His distinguished career includes serving as Director of Probation Services, Chief of Staff, and Court Administrator across several Georgia jurisdictions. In his current role in Cobb County, Mr. Graves oversees all non-judicial operations, including fiscal management, strategic planning, and staff performance, guiding the court toward excellence through integrity and innovation.
A respected voice in the justice community, Mr. Graves serves on the Georgia Juvenile Justice State Advisory Group and is an active member of several national and state-level organizations, including the Juvenile Court Association of Georgia, National Association of Court Managers, American Probation and Parole Association, National Criminal Justice Association, and American Corrections Association. His work champions evidence-based practices, the promotion of governmental and community partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to enhancing outcomes for youth and families.
Mr. Graves holds a B.A. in Sociology from Morehouse College and an M.S. in Criminal Justice from Liberty University. Known for his humility, passion, and strategic insight, he continues to raise the standard for court administration and youth advocacy throughout the state and beyond.
“Adolphus represents the very best of what youth justice leadership should be,” said Presiding Judge Amber Patterson. “His vision and tireless dedication have impacted countless lives and helped shape a more compassionate and effective justice system.”
Outside of his professional achievements, Mr. Graves is a devoted husband and proud father of four. His work is a reflection of his deep personal commitment to creating a better future for all young people.
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The Honorable Judge Sonja N. Brown of the Cobb County Superior Court was presented with the Distinguished Judicial Award by Young Lawyers Division (YLD) President Kenneth Mitchell, Jr. during the 2025 State Bar of Georgia Annual Meeting held on Friday, June 6, 2025.
The award honors members of the judiciary who actively support and encourage the professional growth of young lawyers while also demonstrating steadfast support of the YLD President’s leadership throughout their term. Judge Brown’s exemplary mentorship, service-minded leadership, and consistent engagement with the legal and broader community made her a natural choice for this prestigious recognition.
“I love serving Cobb County both on and off the bench,” said Judge Brown. “I am honored to be recognized by the YLD, and I remain committed to mentoring young lawyers and encouraging meaningful community service throughout our profession.”
Judge Brown began serving on the Cobb County Superior Court bench on January 1, 2023, following her tenure as a full-time Magistrate Court Judge in Cobb County. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Tommy Nobis Center, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities through job training and employment services.
Before joining the bench, Judge Brown built an extensive legal career serving in leadership roles within the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office and Solicitor-General’s Office, as well as the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office. She also held corporate legal roles at Convergent Media Systems Corporation, where she advanced from Paralegal to Staff Counsel.
Judge Brown holds a Juris Doctor from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, a Master of Arts in Christian Practice from Duke Divinity School, and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media Arts from Clark Atlanta University. Of all her roles, she proudly considers being an aunt to her two nieces and four nephews among her most cherished.
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