Chapter 58 LAW ENFORCEMENT
Plain English: what this part covers
This chapter sets up the Ashburn Police Department: how the chief is appointed, what the chief and officers must do, who qualifies to be an officer, and the rules of conduct. It is mostly about how the department is run, not about rules for residents.
- $1,000 bond for the police chief and each officer (Secs. 58-32(b), 58-33(b))
- Minimum age 18 for officers (Sec. 58-33(a)(1))
- 240-hour basic course within 12 months of appointment, as written (Sec. 58-33(a)(8))
- Monthly arrest/case report to council (Sec. 58-32(c)(9))
Cross reference— Administration, ch. 2; civil emergencies, ch. 30; courts, ch. 34; offenses and miscellaneous provisions, ch. 62; traffic and vehicles, ch. 82.
State Law reference— Law enforcement officer appreciation day, § 1-4-6; peace officer memorial day and police week, O.C.G.A. § 1-4-7; Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Act, O.C.G.A. § 35-8-1 et seq.; training requirements for police chiefs, O.C.G.A. § 35-8-20; special police, O.C.G.A. § 35-9-1 et seq.; compensation of municipal law enforcement officers to be by fixed salary only, O.C.G.A. § 36-30-9; municipality's liability for torts of police or other officers, O.C.G.A. § 36-33-3; definition of police officer for purpose of state traffic laws, O.C.G.A. § 40-1-1; fleeing or attempting to elude police officers, impersonating law enforcement officer, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-395; public officer causing arrest or detention for violation involving public records, documents, and other items not civilly liable, O.C.G.A. § 45-11-1(d); assault under color of office, O.C.G.A. § 45-11-3; tort liability for false arrest, O.C.G.A. § 51-7-1 et seq.; tort liability for false imprisonment, O.C.G.A. § 51-7-20; tort liability for malicious prosecution, O.C.G.A. § 51-7-40; authority to provide for police protection, Ga. Const. art. IX, § II, ¶ III(a)(1).
What's in here
Questions folks ask
Who appoints the police chief?
The mayor appoints the chief with the advice and consent of the city council. The chief runs the department, subject to the mayor and council's orders.
What are the basic qualifications to be an Ashburn police officer?
At least 18, a U.S. citizen, a high school diploma or equivalent, no disqualifying criminal record, fingerprint check, good moral character, a physical and mental exam, and completion of a basic training course within 12 months of appointment.
Does the police chief report to the council?
Yes. The chief or a designated officer attends regular council meetings and submits a monthly report on arrests and ordinance cases, including arrests and cases by officer.
Can police come into my house without a warrant?
Under the city code, no officer may enter a private dwelling without a search or arrest warrant unless pursuing a fugitive believed to have committed or attempted a felony. Constitutional law also applies.
Can city police cars be driven outside city limits?
Only in an emergency, during hot pursuit, or on official business.
How is officer misconduct handled?
The code lists prohibited conduct, including unnecessary force, drinking on duty, mistreating prisoners and accepting rewards or bribes. After notice and a hearing, the city council can reprimand, fine, suspend or dismiss an officer.
This is a plain-English guide, not legal advice. The official code is on Municode and at City Hall. Our copy is from April 30, 2026.
Online: https://jamesburgessleads.com/city-code/PTIICOOR_CH58LAEN
Official version: https://library.municode.com/GA/Ashburn/codes/Code_of_Ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH58LAEN
Paid for by James Burgess