Governor Deal appoints Sheriff Ralston to special task force
Gordon County Sheriff Mitch Ralston this week has been named to Governor Nathan Deal’s law enforcement task force.
According to a press release from the Governor’s office, the task force will examine the Basic Law Enforcement Officer Training Course and establish competencybased standards for any course revisions deemed appropriate.
“I am humbled, honored and excited to have been selected by Governor Deal to serve on this task force,” said Sheriff Ralston. “I take this responsibility very seriously in that it will affect both the people of Calhoun and Gordon County, as well as the rest of our state.”
According to Governor Deal’s office, the task force is comprised of law enforcement officials, judges, legislators and community leaders throughout the state and will equip officers with the critical thinking and tactical skills needed to face the challenges of policing in a modern society. Deal announced his intention to create the task force in September as phase three of his law enforcement reform package.
“Every day, law enforcement personnel of all levels and ranks are asked to do a very difficult job, one that requires significant skill and a strong dedication of purpose,” said Deal. “Protecting our citizens is one of the fundamental roles of government and we must continue to strengthen the ties of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
“To that end, I have charged the task force with reviewing the Basic Law Enforcement Training Course and providing any necessary recommendations. The unique experiences and diverse perspectives of the task force members will help guide our efforts as we seek to improve public safety for all citizens. I look forward to meeting with them to discuss how we can continue to improve outcomes for Georgia.”
Sheriff Ralston assumed office in Gordon County in 2009 after being elected by a record number of votes. In May 2016, Sheriff Ralston was re- elected to his third term after receiving another record number of votes.
His law enforcement career spans more than 27 years, having served as a Calhoun firefighters and police officer, and serving 18 years in the Georgia State Patrol. As a trooper, Ralston served in a number of different assignments, including the SWAT team and DUI task force. He is a certified accident reconstructionist and