Back Your Blue

Ken Ashley, Chairman of the Fulton County Sheriff’s Foundation, shares how the foundation plays a crucial role in supporting deputies and officers—both during times of personal need and moments of celebration. Support for impactful community initiatives like the annual Back-to-School event, the foundation works to foster positive interactions between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Ken also highlights a unique opportunity for taxpayers to directly allocate up to $5,000 to qualified law enforcement foundations, helping fund resources such as mental health care services, specialized equipment and bonuses.

Chanae Clemons, Clayton County Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Court, and Tahnicia Phillips, Cobb County Clerk of State Court, highlight the multifaceted responsibilities of the Clerk of Court—from maintaining official court records and administering oaths to providing vital administrative support to the judicial system. They stress that while the Clerk’s Office cannot offer legal advice, equipping staff with a strong network of resources and referral options is essential to ensure that community members can access critical information in moments that may carry life-changing consequences.

Che` Alexander, Clerk of Court for Fulton County, emphasizes that the Clerk’s Office plays a vital role in the lives of all who interact with the court system—whether through criminal proceedings, financial disputes, or real estate filings. Under her leadership, the Office has embraced a culture of experience, respect, and heartfelt compassion, resulting in notably increased efficiency and responsiveness throughout the Fulton County Courts.

Alli Neal and Jennifer Ross of Revved Up Kids discuss the startling statistics on sexual abuse of children – such as the average age of assault victims is 8 years old – and why it’s important that this information isn’t hidden away. Revved Up Kids provides training to help prevent sexual abuse by working with students, parents, community groups and local police departments.

Defense Attorney Ashleigh Merchant shares details from recent cases that have captured public attention and, in some cases, alarmed the public unnecessarily. Ashleigh subscribes to the philosophy that the more the public sees the sausage being made, the better it is for criminal justice.

Major Steve Gaynor and Investigator Pedros Munoz of the Cobb Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division detail the ongoing work of their Fraud Division as fraud cases continue to rise. They highlight how criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leading to an escalation in the financial impact of these crimes.

Major Steve Gaynor and Investigator Pedros Munoz of the Cobb Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division detail the ongoing work of their Fraud Division as fraud cases continue to rise. They highlight how criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leading to an escalation in the financial impact of these crimes.

The Jess Rousey Honoring Heroes Foundation and its founder, Samantha Rousey Glass, are dedicated to ensuring that first responders are equipped, supported and empowered to serve their communities. Lt. Justin Bullis with the Cobb County