"My name is Rodney Curtis. First, I am a Christian man. Second, a fiancé to Julie Russell. Third, a father to two Children; Landon and Carly Curtis. I was born and raised in Gordon County. My parents are Lamar and Mary Curtis. I have two brothers-Ron and Derrick Curtis, and we have a sweet, energetic dog named Max.

 

"I bring over two decades of extensive law enforcement experience to this candidacy for sheriff. Beginning my career in 2002 at the Gordon County Sheriff's Office, I served in various capacities, including Jailer, Sheriff's Deputy, and Detective with the Drug Task Force Unit.

 

"Transitioning to the Georgia State Patrol in 2008, I continued to excel, holding positions such as Trooper, Field Training Officer, and Instructor at the Georgia Department of Public Safety Training. I also served on the SCRT (Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team) and achieved the rank of Corporal at Post 5. I also have experience in specialized security control through the Georgia State Patrol where my training allowed me to secure high ranking figures that visited our State such as but not limited to; Condelsa Rice, Bill Clinton, John Calapari, Beyonce, etc,.

 

"In 2021, I expanded his expertise by joining the Beasley Allen Law Firm as an Investigator while concurrently serving part-time with the Cohutta Police Department. My roles as Training Coordinator, Patrol Corporal, and Captain underscore my commitment to both law enforcement and community safety.

 

"My dedication to professional development is evident in my specialized training, covering a wide array of areas such as Interviews and Interrogations, Accident Reconstruction, Crisis Intervention, and Firearms Instruction.

 

"Throughout my career, I has garnered numerous accolades, including the Valor Award, Gordon County Elks Officer of the Year, and recognition as an Expert Witness. My exemplary service and unwavering commitment to justice make him a formidable candidate for the position of sheriff."

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Why are you running for office?

1. I deeply love and cherish this community, having lived here my entire life.

2. I feel a calling from the Higher Power and support from community leaders to serve in this capacity.

3. My diverse experience in law enforcement uniquely qualifies me for the role, as I have firsthand knowledge of the jobs I will be supervising.

4. I have been approached by numerous community members and professionals affected by the sheriff's office, who recognize the necessity for change and believe in my ability to bring about positive reforms.

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What changes do you feel need to be made in the operation of the Sheriff’s Office?

I see several areas in the sheriff's office that require attention and improvement, including:

a. Retention rates of our deputies

b. Jail Operations

c. Investigations

d. Response times

e. Programs that can benefit the community
      i. Reform
      ii. Rehabilitation
      iii. Mental health initiatives

f. Transparency

g. Accessibility

h. Cooperation with other law enforcement agencies and court systems

i. Public Service in general

j. Proper allocations of budget funds

k. Wasteful spending

l. More specialized and advanced training

m. Fair application of the law to everyone

n. Community involvement

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What do you hope to implement if elected for office both short term and long term?

To reference the previous question, my plans of implementation include:

1. **Retention rates**: Ensuring the retention of experienced and qualified personnel to maintain continuity and effectiveness.

2. **Jail Operations**: Enhancing efficiency, safety, and inmate rehabilitation within the correctional facility.

3. **Investigations**: Improving investigative processes and resources to enhance case resolution and community safety.

4. **Response times**: Streamlining emergency response protocols to reduce response times and enhance public safety.

5. **Community Programs**: Implementing and expanding programs that benefit the community, such as youth outreach and crime prevention initiatives.

6. **Reform and Rehabilitation**: Implementing reforms to promote fairness, accountability, and rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.

7. **Mental Health Initiatives**: Developing specialized programs and services to address mental health needs within the community and inmate population.

8. **Transparency and Accessibility**: Promoting transparency in operations and ensuring accessibility to information for the public.

9. **Cooperation with other Agencies**: Fostering collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and court systems to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.

10. **Public Service**: Prioritizing public service and community engagement to build trust and foster positive relationships.

11. **Budget Allocations**: Ensuring proper allocation of budget funds to address critical needs and avoid wasteful spending.

12. **Training**: Providing specialized and advanced training for deputies to enhance skills and adapt to evolving challenges.

13. **Fair Application of Law**: Ensuring the fair and impartial application of the law to all individuals regardless of background or status.

 

By addressing these areas, we can work towards building a more effective, transparent, and responsive sheriff's office that better serves and protects our community. The long term effects of the programs and policies I would initiate would make Gordon County a better, safer place for everyone.