East Cobb Public Safety

Cobb Fire Marshal issues burn ban due to drought conditions

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A severe drought has resulted in wildfires in South Georgia and has caused haze in some areas of metro Atlanta.Cobb Fire Department fireworks safety reminder

Those conditions prompted the Cobb Fire Marshal on Wednesday to issue an outdoor burning ban “until further notice.”

Cobb Fire and Emergency Services referenced a county ordinance that authorizes the fire marshal “to ban any or all forms of outdoor burning when atmospheric or local conditions make outdoor fires hazardous.

“All outdoor burning is prohibited during this time to help reduce fire risk and to protect our community. We appreciate your cooperation in helping keep Cobb County safe.”

The ban comes a week before the statewide outdoor burning ban that takes place each year from May 1-Sept. 30. During that period, “you may burn limited yard debris such as leaves, pine straw, and small limbs from growth on your property.”

Here are the restrictions for outdoor burning.

The lack of rain has caused wildfires in southern Georgia, which has been under a general burn ban. More than 16,000 acres of have burned and Gov. Brian Kemp issued a state of emergency for that part of the state.

Almost all of Georgia has been experiencing drought in the spring. Rain is in the forecast for Cobb County early next week, as dry, low-humidity weather continues.

State officials predict they’ll be able to contain the south Georgia wildfires by the end of May.

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Woman seriously injured in pedestrian crash at Brumby ES

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Updated, 10 a.m. Friday:

Cobb County School District Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said Thursday night the crash victim is recovering, but “it’s a long road to recovery.”

He said during a Cobb Board of Education meeting that it’s a “miracle” and that the woman “has a long road ahead.”

Updated, 3:50 p.m. Wednesday:Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Cobb Police said Wednesday that a 35-year-0ld woman suffered serious injuries this morning when she was hit by a vehicle in the drop-off line at Brumby Elementary School.

Sgt. Eric Smith said that the woman was struck around 8 a.m. by a 2017 gray Chrysler Pacifica that was being operated by a 13-year-old juvenile female.

The Cobb County School District told East Cobb News earlier Wednesday that the victim was “tragically struck by their own vehicle.”

The vehicle also included a 4-year-old boy and a 3-year-old girl, Smith added. Police didn’t say why the woman was out of the car, or why the 13-year-old was behind the driver’s wheel.

Police said that the “vehicle accelerated, and the front of the Chrysler collided with the woman and came to a final rest on top of her.”

Smith said the Chrysler then went into reverse, still in the drop-off lane, and crashed into a silver 2020 Chevrolet Equinox that was parked and unoccupied.

Smith said the woman who was hit by the Chrysler was taken to a hospital and that the collision remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cobb Police at 770-499-3987.

UPDATED, 10:30 A.M.:

The Cobb County School District said that the pedestrian involved in the crash was an adult who during the school drop-off period was “tragically struck by their own vehicle. First responders arrived quickly to provide care, and school will continue on a normal schedule today.”

ORIGINAL REPORT, 8:59 A.M.: 

Cobb Police and emergency services personnel are at Brumby Elementary School Wednesday morning following a pedestrian crash in the area.

A reader dropping off someone at the adjacent East Cobb Middle School on Terrell Mill Road told East Cobb News he noticed multiple police cars and two ambulances at Brumby around 8:15 a.m.

Cobb Police Sgt. Eric Smith told East Cobb News that that “our STEP Unit has been activated to conduct the investigation.  We will be able to provide more information once they have had an opportunity to complete their preliminary investigation.”

This story will be updated.

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Domestic violence suspect near KSU campus identified

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UPDATED, 4:50 P.M.

The Cobb Sheriff’s Office has just issued the following statement:

“Despite extensive efforts by deputies and assisting agencies, the suspect was not located during today’s search. Law enforcement personnel are now concluding the active search in the immediate area and will regroup to continue investigative efforts at a later time.

“While this search generated public attention due to its proximity to a college campus, situations like this occur more frequently than many realize and are typically resolved without the need for public notification. Out of an abundance of caution, information was shared earlier today to ensure the campus community and surrounding residents were aware of the law enforcement activity.

“At this time, there is no known danger to the public.”

ORIGINAL REPORT, 3:50 P.M.

The Cobb Sheriff’s Office said Tuesday it’s searching for a man wanted on a domestic violence warrant near the Kennesaw State University campus.

Domestic violence suspect near KSU campus identified
Jessie Santiago

Public information officer Hassan Glenn said the suspect is Jessie Santiago, 26, and whose photo was distributed Tuesday afternoon as the manhunt continues.

Hassan said that deputies recognized the suspect from an active domestic violence warrant near KSU and although they weren’t serving a warrant at the time, they tried to take him into custody after identifying him.

Hassan said that when deputies approached the suspect, he fled on foot, and that the Sheriff’s Office is working with KSU police and Cobb Police to locate Santiago.

“Residents are urged to remain alert and use caution as law enforcement patrol the area,” Hassan said in a statement. “Please stay aware of your surroundings and avoid approaching the individual.”

Anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts is asked to call Cobb County Sheriff’s Office at (770) 499-4600 or submit a tip through the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office mobile app.

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Cobb Police announce 2026 Citizens Public Safety Academy

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Submitted information:Cobb public safety appreciation

The Cobb County Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing its 2026 session of the Citizens Public Safety Academy.

This 16-week program provides an opportunity for Cobb County citizens to obtain an insider’s look into the various entities that comprise the Department of Public Safety. During the course, participants will gain knowledge and insight as to how the Police, Fire, Animal Services, Medical Examiner and 911 departments are organized and the important role each one plays in fulfilling the myriad of tasks that ensure the safety of all the citizens of Cobb County. 

In order to participate, interested citizens should either live in Cobb County or work for Cobb County Government or Schools and be at least 18-years-of age or older.

The Academy start date is Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at 18:00 hrs. (6 P.M.) at the Cobb County Public Safety Police Training Academy, located at 2435 East West Connector, Austell, GA 30106-8196.

In order to be accepted into the program, applicants must fill out an application.  This application can be e-mailed to you or be picked up in person at the DPS Training Center located at 2435 East West Connector, Austell, GA 30106-8196.

The application will need to be physically taken to the Cobb County Public Safety Office of Professional Standards, located at 1165 Northchase Pkwy, Marietta, GA  30067 no later than Thursday, 07 May 2026, at 3 p.m. You must bring your driver’s license or state issued ID or U.S Passport with you as they will need to make a copy of this for the application process.

The academy may fill quickly, so applications that are Wait-Listed will be held over to the 2027 program if necessary. If you do not have an e-mail address, please make sure to provide a phone number. 

The first night of the Citizens Academy we will meet at the Cobb County Public Safety Police Training Academy, 2435 East West Connector, Austell, GA 30106-8196. Participants will meet some of the Training staff and receive a presentation from one of our various units. Please note, the first night begins at 18:00 hrs. (6:00 p.m.) and most subsequent sessions will meet at 18:30 hrs. (6:30 p.m.) at various Cobb County Public Safety locations. Classes will be conducted every Tuesday evening for 15 weeks, with graduation being the 16th week and at 6:00 p.m. (18:00 hrs).  A few of the planned activities include:

      • Meeting with distinguished members of the Public Safety Department
      • Touring the 911 Communications Center and the Medical Examiner’s Office
      • Receiving demonstrations from DPS Police Training on weapons/firearms safety and defensive tactics.
      • Participating in classes from the Fire Department special operations, i.e., Hazardous Materials, Heavy Rescue Squad.

The complete schedule will be given out on the first night along with other information.

If you have any questions about the Public Safety Citizens Academy, please contact Sergeant DR Reid at 770.590.5517 or by e-mail at David.Reid@cobbcounty.gov.

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Man dies in Powers Ferry-Terrell Mill single-car crash

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Cobb Police said a man whose vehicle crashed into a tree on Powers Ferry Road near Terrell Mill Road Tuesday has died.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Sgt. Shenise Barner said in a release Friday that the victim was Cid Oliveira, 52, of Marietta.

According to police, Oliveira was driving a burgundy 2016 Kia Optima southbound on Powers Ferry, south of the Terrell Mill intersection, around 7:18 a.m. Tuesday, when the crash occurred.

Barner said the Kia was traveling in a left lane, and “for reasons unknown,” crossed two lanes of traffic, drove onto a sidewalk on the west side of Powers Ferry and struck a tree.

The vehicle landed on a sidewalk, according to police, who said Oliveira was then taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Barner said that Oliveira was pronounced dead by Kennestone medical personnel and that his next of kin have been notified.

The crash remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the Cobb  Police Department S.T.E.P. Unit at 770-499-3987.

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Cobb Police: Motorcyclist killed in Ebenezer Road collision

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Cobb Police said Sunday that a man riding a motorcycle that crashed with a car on Ebenezer Road Sunday has died.Cobb Police, Holly Springs Road suspicious person, East Cobb crime forum

Officer Aaron Wilson said in a release that Nicholas Karantonis, 31, of Roswell, was riding a 2009 Harley-Davidson FHX southbound at 3055 Ebenezer Road, near Addison Elementary School, around 6:24 p.m. Sunday.

According to police, the motorcycle crashed with a 2010 Honda Accord driven by Thomas Coe, 82, of Marietta, who was traveling in the northbound lane of Ebenezer Road.

Wilson said investigators determined that the motorcycle crossed into the northbound lane, causing the crash. Police said first responders rushed to the scene to provide aid, but Karantonis was pronounced dead at the scene by the Cobb County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Wilson also said that Coe and two other passengers in the Honda, Cynthia Coe, 81, of Marietta, and Scott Coe, 49, of Marietta, were taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with minor injuries.

Police said they are continuing to investigate the crash and that anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department S.T.E.P. Unit at 770-499-3987.

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Cobb Police officer helps save newborn after roadside birth

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Cobb Police officer helps save newborn in roadside delivery
The Preston family with their newborn child. Photos courtesy of Cobb Police.

A Cobb Police officer responding to an emergency request for assistance last week ended up helping save a newborn baby in distress.

Officer William Desaussure was conducting an unrelated traffic stop on Thursday on Sandy Plains Road near Whitlock Road in East Cobb when he was approached by a driver asking for help.

The man told the officer his wife was in active labor and they weren’t going to make it to the hospital, according to a release Tuesday from Cobb Police.

https://eastcobbnews.com/sprayberry-hs-placed-on-lockdown-after-report-of-weapon/
Cobb Police Officer William Desaussure

Desaussure reached the vehicle where a woman had already delivered the baby. But the infant was not breathing, and he began performing chest compressions, police said.

After several compressions, according to police, the baby began breathing.

Cobb Fire and Emergency Services were called to the scene and took the mother and child to a hospital for further care, according to police, who said “we are happy to report that both have since been released and are doing well.”

Police said the Prestons shared the above photo and “expressed their gratitude for Officer Desaussure’s actions.

“As first responders, officers never know when or where they may be called upon to act. On this day, Officer Desaussure was in the right place at the right time, and his quick response helped ensure this child entered the world safely.

“We extend our congratulations to the Preston family on the birth of their child and wish them continued health and happiness.”

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Sprayberry HS lockdown lifted after report of weapon

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A Code Red alert was issued at Sprayberry High School Thursday following a report that a student had a weapon in a backpack.

In an e-mail message that went out to the school community, Principal David Church said that the lockdown was issued “out of an abundance of caution” and that “there is a significant police presence on campus as they investigate.”

The message said that a 911 call was made Thursday morning but provided few other details.

Church said that “students and staff are safe and secure and procedures are being followed carefully and calmly.”

In response to a request for information from East Cobb News, the Cobb County School District issued the following response:

“Earlier today, a report was made of a weapon at Sprayberry High School. Law enforcement responded immediately, and the school was placed on a brief Code Red lockdown while police investigated. All students and staff are safe. No weapon was found and police are investigating the report as a hoax 911 call. We are grateful for the swift response and continued support of our law enforcement partners.”

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Cobb Sheriff’s Office announces 5th Citizens Academy

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Submitted information:Cobb Sheriff's Office

The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office invites community members to participate in the 5th Cobb County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy (CCSCA) — a hands-on, behind-the-scenes opportunity to learn about the structure, operations, and leadership of the Sheriff’s Office.

This seven-week interactive program includes lectures, interdisciplinary workshops led by Sheriff’s Office personnel, tactical equipment displays, and discussions with specialized units. Participants will gain firsthand insight into the daily operations and responsibilities of the men and women who serve Cobb County.

Who: Cobb County Sheriff’s Office
What: Cobb County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy (CCSCA) — a seven-week program focused on educating residents about the Sheriff’s Office through immersive learning and direct engagement with Sheriff’s Office leadership.
When: Every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5, 2026
  • March 12, 2026
  • March 19, 2026
  • March 26, 2026
  • April 2, 2026
  • April 16, 2026
  • April 23, 2026
Where: Cobb County Public Safety Training Center, Cobb County Adult Detention Center, and the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters in downtown Marietta
Why: This free academy strengthens community partnerships by empowering residents through transparency, education, and open dialogue. It offers a rare chance to go beyond the badge and engage with key personnel who protect and serve Cobb County.
Enrollment Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Possess a valid government identification
  • Complete an application and submit it to the Community Engagement Unit
  • Successfully complete a background investigation
  • Attend at least 6 out of 7 sessions
  • Deadline to apply is February 27, 2026

Cost: Free. Apply here for this unique opportunity

Motorcyclist seriously injured in Johnson Ferry Road crash

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Cobb Police said Thursday that a motorcyclist is in serious condition after a crash on Johnson Ferry Road.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Sgt. Eric Smith said that the unidentified motorcyclist is in serious condition after his bike collided with a vehicle on Johnson Ferry Road near Little Willeo Road.

Police said the crash took place at around 7:41 a.m. Thursday when a gray 2015 Yamaha FZ09 motorcycle heading northbound on Johnson Ferry was struck by a gray 2022 Chrysler Pacifica making a left turn from a southbound lane onto 1000 Johnson Ferry Road, at Woodlawn Point Shopping Center.

Smith said the driver of the Chrysler was not injured in the crash, which remains under investigation. Traffic was backed up in that area for a while on Thursday morning, according to local traffic reports.

Cobb Police are asking anyone with information about the crash to call 770-499-3987.

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Cobb Police: Pedestrian killed in Powers Ferry Road crash

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Cobb Police said that a man who was laying down in Powers Ferry Road was struck and killed by a pickup truck early Saturday morning.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Sgt. Eric Smith said Sunday that the victim, who was not identified except that he was Hispanic, was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital.

Smith said that the incident took place at 1:19 am. Sunday on Powers Ferry Road near Sherwood Drive. That’s located east of the South Marietta Parkway near Powers Ferry Elementary School.

According to police, a 2014 Ford F-150 was traveling northbound on Powers Ferry Road when it hit the pedestrian, who “for unknown reasons” was laying perpendicular in a center turn lane and a northbound lane.

Smith said the victim’s next of kin have not been identified, and the driver of the Ford was not injured.

Cobb Police said anyone with information about the crash is asked to call 770-499-3987.

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Two Cobb police officers charged with crimes against minors

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Cobb Police said Wednesday that two of their officers are facing criminal charges in Cherokee County involving minors.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

In separate releases, Cobb Police Sgt. Eric Smith said that Officer Withman Benjamin and Officer Tyler Bertolini have been placed on administrative leave pending continuing investigations.

Smith said that Benjamin has been charged with sexual battery against a minor, and Bertolini has been charged with child cruelty.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said it arrested Benjamin, 47, of Canton, on Friday, on one count of sexual battery against a child under 16, following an investigation that began in September at the request of Canton Police.

Benjamin was booked in the Cherokee Adult Detention Center but is no longer in custody.

“The residents of Cobb County expect and deserve law enforcement officers who uphold the law and demonstrate integrity at all times, both on and off duty,” Cobb Police Chief Dan Ferrell said in a statement.

“We are committed to following the facts, respecting due process, and taking all appropriate action to maintain the trust and confidence of our community.”

Bertolini, also of Canton, turned himself in to Cherokee authorities Tuesday after being charged with two counts of cruelty to children. He is accused of using a belt against a 10-year-old boy in November, causing bruises and welts, and then pushing the child down onto a floor.

Ferrell issued a similar statement about Bertolini’s arrest, saying that “the expectation in Cobb County is clear. Our officers must uphold the law and conduct themselves with integrity, on and off duty.

“We are reviewing the facts, respecting due process, and will take appropriate action to maintain the trust of our community.”

Smith said the two cases are not related.

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Cobb Police appoints Maj. Darin Hull as Precinct 4 commander

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Darin Hull, a nearly 20-year veteran of the Cobb Police Department, has been named the commander of Precinct 4 in East Cobb.

Cobb Police appoints Maj. Darin Hull as Precinct 4 commander
Maj. Darin Hull

Hull, who most recently had been head of the Cobb Police Major Crimes Unit, began his duties in December succeeding Brian Batterton, who retired after 30 years of service.

Hull also has been commander of the Cobb Police Violent Incident Prevention and Early Response (VIPER) unit, supervised an organized crime and gang unit and has had roles with the DUI Task Force, Underwater Search and Recovery Team (USRT) and in a variety of positions in Precinct 1 in northwest Cobb.

From 2018-24, Hull also served in a part-time role as police coordinator with the Atlanta Braves and for events at Truist Park.

In 2023, Hull was part of a Cobb Police real-time crime response operation that tracked down a suspect in a shooting at a Midtown Atlanta medical office. The suspect was found near Truist Park and The Battery after an extensive manhunt facilitated by the use of advanced technology and criminal intelligence.

Before joining Cobb Police, Hull was an investigator with the Cobb Sheriff’s Office. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from American InterContinental University and a Master’s of Public Administration in emergency management from Jacksonville State University.

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New Year’s Eve 2025 fireworks guidelines in Cobb County

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Cobb fireworks New Year's Eve

Cobb County government issuing reminders for New Year’s fireworks use.

Permissible use of fireworks on Wednesday, New Year’s Eve, goes through 1 a.m.

On Thursday, New Year’s Day, you can discharge until midnight.

Prohibited locations include county parks. “This includes historic sites, recreational areas and state property. It is illegal to use them within 100 yards of an electric plant, water or wastewater treatment plant, gas station, refinery, electric substation, jail, helipad, hospital, nursing home or other health care facility,” Cobb government’s guidelines state.

And here’s some more info to keep in mind:

Brush off the old and ring in the new this week. Cobb County Government offices will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1. We hope everyone enjoys their New Year celebrations in safe and fun ways.

If you use consumer fireworks, protect yourself, your loved ones, and abide by regulations. See the state law here. Ordinances and safety tips include:

  • Read and follow label directions.
  • Fireworks should only be used with adult supervision.
  • Only use fireworks outdoors.
  • Ensure you have water and fire extinguishing equipment handy.
  • Only light one firework at a time.
  • Be prepared to dial 911.

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Pedestrian killed on I-75 at Terrell Mill NW Corridor lanes

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Cobb Police said a pedestrian was killed Tuesday night after being hit by a vehicle on the Interstate 75 Northwest Corridor lanes at Terrell Mill Road.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Sgt. Eric Smith said that the unidentified pedestrian walked into a northbound lane near 9 p.m. Tuesday and was struck by a marked DeKalb Police patrol car driven by an off-duty officer.

The pedestrian landed on the right shoulder of the corridor after impact, and was pronounced dead on the scene by the Cobb Medical Examiner’s Office, Smith said.

Police said the man’s next of kin has been notified, and the off-duty DeKalb officer was not injured. The crash remains under investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact Cobb Police at 770-499-3987.

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‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ holiday enforcement begins

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Submitted information:'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' holiday enforcement begins

The Cobb County Police Department DUI Task Force and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) are offering their only warning before the Christmas & New Year holiday season to never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination of both substances. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) December Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over impaired driving enforcement campaign will begin on December 12, 2025 and run through January 1, 2026.   

The Cobb County Police Department is joining state and local law enforcement across Georgia in increasing DUI enforcement during the holiday season with the goal of saving lives by preventing crashes caused by drunk and drugged drivers. State troopers, sheriff’s deputies, and police officers across the state always have a zero tolerance for impaired driving. Zero tolerance means any driver found on the road with a Blood-Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level of .08 or higher will be arrested. No warnings will be given, and no one will be allowed to call a relative or friend to give them a ride. 

“Impaired driving is one of the most serious and preventable dangers on our roads. Each year, our officers see crashes that cause severe injuries and needless loss of life because someone chose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These accidents divert emergency resources, burden families, and strain our community. They are not accidents. They are the result of avoidable decisions. Our department will continue traffic enforcement and public education, but safety starts with individual responsibility. If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, arrange a safe ride. Together, we can prevent these tragedies and keep our roads safe,” Chief Ferrell said. 

“If alcohol is part of the plan, then the plan must include arranging a ride with a sober driver because driving after drinking is never worth the risk to yourself and others on the road,” Allen Poole, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety said. “For those who refuse to put their safety and the safety of others first, please know we have a jail cell ready and waiting for all drunk and drugged drivers we find on the road. Please think about yourself and others and make the right decision to call a friend, cab or ride share for a sober ride.”

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Cobb Police Precinct 4 Commander Maj. Batterton retires

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Cobb Police Precinct 4 Commander Maj. Batterton retires
Cobb Police Maj. Brian Batterton, retiring Precinct 4 Commander

Maj. Brian Batterton, a 30-year veteran of the Cobb Police Department and the commander of Precinct 4 in East Cobb since 2018, has retired.

Batterton was honored at a special ceremony Wednesday marking his service.

He began his tenure in Precinct 4 in 1995, and has served as a patrol officer, a criminal investigations supervisor and as a training center commander.

Batterton, an East Cobb resident, earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University and a juris doctor degree from John Marshall Law School. He also has served in the National Guard in Georgia and Alabama.

After Wednesday’s ceremony, Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell said that “throughout his tenure, Maj. Batterton served with professionalism, dedication, and a strong commitment to public safety, leaving a lasting impact on Precinct 4 and the community it serves.

“Congratulations, Maj. Batterton, on your well-earned retirement. You will be greatly missed, and we thank you for your 30 years of service and leadership at Precinct 4.”

The new Precinct 4 commander will be Major Darin Hull, currently the head of the Cobb Police Major Crimes Unit, according to Officer Aaron Wilson, a Cobb Police public information officer.

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New crosswalk at Davis ES opens on Jamerson Road

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New crosswalk at Davis ES opens after pedestrian crash

After a 12-year-old boy was seriously injured this past summer crossing Jamerson Road near Davis Elementary School, a new crosswalk has been installed in that area.

Cobb government and transportation officials were on hand earlier this week as students and their parents traversed Jamerson in a newly constructed crosswalk, along with flashing lights and warning signs for pedestrians and motorists alike.

Cobb commissioners approved spending $146,000 in SPLOST revenues for the safety enhancements, and Commissioner JoAnn Birrell was among those on hand for the debut (see Cobb TV video below).

Preston Veal, a student at Mabry Middle School, has undergone a long recovery after being hit by a van while crossing Jamerson Road near the school in late June. He was hospitalized with numerous broken bones and internal injuries, according to a GoFundMe page set up to help pay for his medical expenses.

Veal, a member of the Lassiter Junior Trojan youth football program, was walking home from Davis on June 28 after shooting basketball at the school. Cobb Police said he was crossing from a sidewalk on Jamerson, east of Turtle Rock Drive, when he was hit by a van.

That’s near the only crosswalk across Jamerson serving the school.

Among those walking her child across the crosswalk was mom Courtney Chiang DiStefano, who told East Cobb News last summer that had begun a petition for a solar flashing light alert, along with crosswalk detectors, a chirping alert for pedestrians and for another crosswalk to be built to cover both sides of the school. 

She didn’t get everything she initially asked for, but was pleased with the new safety measures this week.

DiStefano previously said she and her family use the crosswalk often to visit grandparents and to go to classes as Davis, but told us “the lack of a protected crosswalk with sufficient signage and protection puts our children and neighbors at significant risk.”

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Dodgen Middle School evacuated after faulty fire alarm

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Dodgen Middle School evacuated after faulty fire alarm

Dodgen Middle School families were notified Monday that the school was briefly evacuated after what turned out to be a false fire alarm was triggered during the school day.

A message that went out from Principal Dr. Patricia Alford didn’t say when the incident happened, she but said that everyone was safety evacuated as Cobb Fire crews came to the scene to investigate.

“They discovered that a faulty smoke sensor was the cause, and it was replaced on the spot,” she said. “Once the repair was made, the system worked again and kids were brought back inside. We were able to continue our day with some minor adjustments.”

Alford didn’t give a time frame, but in her message thanked first responders.

East Cobb News has left a message with the Cobb County School District seeking more information.

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Motorist charged in fatal hit-and-run on Terrell Mill Road

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Cobb Police said they’ve charged a motorist in a fatal hit-and-run crash on Terrell Mill Road that killed a pedestrian Monday night.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Officer Aaron Wilson said Kuntae Green, 28, of Marietta, was taken into custody at his home on charges of felony hit-and-run, driving with a suspended license, and a center turn lane violation.

According to his booking report, Green resides at a nearby address and he is being held without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center.

Police said Green was driving a gray 2014 Ford Escape around 7:12 p.m. Monday on Terrell Mill Road near Bentley Road when the incident occurred.

Police said Green’s car was heading south, but in the center lane, when it struck Roubins Francoise, 36, of Marietta, a pedestrian who was attempting to cross Terrell Mill outside of a marked crosswalk.

Wilson said the driver of the Ford Escape fled the scene, and Francois was taken by ambulance to WellStar Kennestone Hospital and later died there.

Wilson said the crash remains under investigation and that nyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Cobb Police STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.

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