Our Beginning
Ted’s Life and Legacy: Ted was a proud product of the Dougherty County School System, graduating in 1985 as a lifelong "Golden Tornado." After high school, he answered the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Army in 1987, where he served honorably before transitioning to a career in law enforcement.
In 1990, Ted began his 17-year tenure with the Albany Police Department, where he rose to the rank of Corporal. During this time, he became a highly respected Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) instructor, training officers across the nation. Even after retiring in 2007, Ted’s passion for serving the youth remained unwavering. He took on a second career as a School Resource Officer with the Dougherty County School System Police Department, where he mentored and positively impacted the lives of countless students.
Not stopping there, Ted embarked on a third career with the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, leading the Youth Division and establishing the Dougherty County Youth Unit. Ted continued to serve on numerous boards and associations dedicated to youth safety and education, earning widespread recognition for his service and dedication.
Work pictures are courtesy of the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office.
Youth Summer Camp
Captain Thomas speaks on mental health issues related to middle and high school students in Dougherty County School System.
Proud & Grateful
This artwork was special to Ted because the artist is one of his former students. Ted displayed the artwork on his office desk.
Loved to Protect & Serve
"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Praise 105.5 FM Airway
Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office Captain Thomas took to the airways to discuss Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety (C.H.A.M.P.S.) Program. This program promotes healthy and safe decisions, in addition to discouraging drug and alcohol abuse.
Celebrations
Captain Thomas, along with two co-workers were honored by the Sheriff's office for their work with the G.R.E.A.T. Program. The G.R.E.A.T. program goals are to educate children about the negative consequences of joining street gangs, and make good decisions when it comes to issues about school, drugs, street gangs, and violence.
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Collaboration
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” 1 Corinthians 1:10
ANNUAL GASROE TED THOMAS GUARDIAN AWARD
STATE RECOGNITION
According to the Barrow County Schools Website, “The Ted Thomas Legacy Award is in memory of the GASROE co-founder Ted Thomas, who dedicated his life to school safety not just in Georgia, but on a National level with the National Association for School Resource Officers (NASRO).” Ted’s legacy is also kept alive through the establishment of the Captain Ted Randall Thomas Foundation (CTRTF), Inc., by his family.
The 1st Annual
Ted Thomas Guardian Award Recipient: Barrow County Superintendent and Sheriff’s office
Always working with the best; whether standing strong as a soldier or serving with honor as an officer of the law. Excellence isn't just what we do, it's who we are.
