10 Best Police Agencies in GA For 2024

OTB Editorial Team
May 15, 2023

Georgia is home to many law enforcement agencies that strive to maintain the safety and security of their communities.

However, some departments and sheriff agencies stand out by providing their officers with exceptional work environments, training opportunities, and potential for career growth.

In this article, we will discuss the top 10 police departments and sheriff agencies in Georgia that offer the best overall experience for officers.

1. Atlanta Police Department

Why APD?: The Atlanta Police Department (APD) is known for its advanced training opportunities and commitment to community policing.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Atlanta offers a wide variety of cultural attractions, such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

Working Culture: APD emphasizes continuous learning and professional development, offering specialized training in areas like homicide investigations, SWAT operations, and crisis negotiation. The department also encourages officers to engage with the community through programs like Coffee with a Cop and Citizens Police Academy.

2. Gwinnett County Police Department

Why GCPD?: Gwinnett County Police Department (GCPD) is recognized for its strong focus on officer wellness and support.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Gwinnett County offers numerous parks, recreation centers, and shopping venues, such as Sugarloaf Mills and the Mall of Georgia.

Working Culture: GCPD prioritizes the well-being of its officers with mental health resources, peer support programs, and an emphasis on work-life balance. The department also encourages career growth through a structured promotional process and opportunities for specialized assignments.

3. Cobb County Sheriff Office

Why CCSO?: Cobb County Sheriff Department is known for its dedication to community involvement and outreach.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Cobb County boasts attractions like the Marietta Square, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, and SunTrust Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.

Working Culture: CCPD is committed to fostering strong relationships between officers and the community through programs like the Citizens Public Safety Academy and Neighborhood Watch.

The department also offers a variety of specialized training opportunities, including crime scene investigation and bomb squad training.

4. DeKalb County Sheriff Department

Why DCSO: DeKalb County Sheriff Office (DCSO) stands out for its emphasis on officer safety and cutting-edge equipment.

Things to Do in or Around the City: DeKalb County is home to popular attractions like Stone Mountain Park and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Working Culture: DCPD prioritizes officer safety with regular training updates and access to state-of-the-art equipment, such as body-worn cameras and crime-fighting technology.

The department also offers opportunities for career advancement and specialized assignments, including narcotics enforcement and K-9 units.

5. Savannah Police Department

Why SPD?: Savannah Police Department (SPD) is recognized for its commitment to officer education and development.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Savannah is known for its historic architecture, picturesque squares, and vibrant nightlife.

Working Culture: SPD offers tuition reimbursement and educational incentives for officers pursuing higher education. The department also provides numerous opportunities for specialized training and career growth, with various specialized units such as the SWAT team and Crime Suppression Unit.

6. Athens-Clarke County Police Department

Why ACCPD?: Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) emphasizes community-oriented policing and innovative problem-solving techniques.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Athens is home to the University of Georgia and offers a lively music scene, eclectic dining options, and numerous cultural events.

Working Culture: ACCPD encourages officers to engage with the community through programs like the Citizen Police Academy and National Night Out.

The department also supports career advancement with opportunities for specialized assignments, such as criminal investigations and traffic enforcement.

7. Fulton County Sheriff’s Office

Why FCSO: Fulton County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is known for its strong focus on training, leadership development, and officer support.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Fulton County encompasses Atlanta, offering a wide range of attractions, entertainment, and dining options.

Working Culture: FCSO provides comprehensive training programs and leadership development courses for officers. The agency also emphasizes officer wellness, offering peer support and mental health resources to ensure the well-being of its personnel.

8. Chatham County Police Department

Why CCPD?: Chatham County Police Department (CCPD) stands out for its commitment to community engagement and crime prevention efforts.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Chatham County includes Savannah, offering a rich history, beautiful scenery, and vibrant arts scene.

Working Culture: CCPD prioritizes community relations, encouraging officers to participate in programs like Coffee with a Cop and Neighborhood Watch. The department also offers specialized training opportunities in areas like crime scene investigation and crisis negotiation.

9. Clayton County Police Department

Why CCPD?: Clayton County Police Department (CCPD) is recognized for its emphasis on officer development and career growth.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Clayton County offers attractions like the Road to Tara Museum and Reynolds Nature Preserve.

Working Culture: CCPD encourages career advancement through a structured promotional process and opportunities for specialized assignments, such as SWAT and K-9 units. The department also provides extensive training in areas like crime scene investigation and crisis intervention.

10. Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office

Why FCSO?: Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is known for its dedication to community outreach and crime prevention initiatives.

Things to Do in or Around the City: Forsyth County offers numerous parks, shopping venues, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Working Culture: FCSO fosters strong relationships between officers and the community through programs like the Citizens Law Enforcement Academy and Shop with a Sheriff. The agency also provides specialized training opportunities, including K-9 handling and narcotics enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for these departments and agencies?

Entry requirements vary by department, but typically include a high school diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, and successful completion of a background check, physical fitness test, and written examination.

Do these departments and agencies offer lateral transfers for experienced officers?

Many of the listed departments and agencies accept lateral transfers for experienced officers, often providing incentives such as higher starting pay and shortened probationary periods.

What is the typical hiring process for these departments and agencies?

The hiring process generally includes a written examination, physical fitness test, oral interview, background investigation, psychological evaluation, medical examination, and police academy training.

Are there age limits for joining these departments and agencies?

Most departments and agencies have a minimum age requirement of 21, but there may be exceptions for certain positions or candidates with prior law enforcement or military experience. Some agencies may also have a maximum age limit.

Do these departments and agencies provide financial assistance for education?

Many of the listed departments and agencies offer tuition reimbursement, educational incentives, or scholarships for officers pursuing higher education.

What kind of specialized units are available within these departments and agencies?

Specialized units can include SWAT, K-9, bomb squad, narcotics enforcement, criminal investigations, traffic enforcement, and more.

How do promotional opportunities work within these departments and agencies?

Promotions are typically based on factors such as performance, experience, education, and the successful completion of promotional examinations or assessments.

Do these departments and agencies have residency requirements for officers?

Residency requirements vary by department and agency, with some requiring officers to live within a certain distance of the jurisdiction or offering incentives for officers who choose to reside within the community they serve.