AUSTELL, GEORGIA — A former Walton County Sheriff’s Deputy is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly assaulting three women — two of whom are Georgia law enforcement officers — inside the Georgia Peace Officer Standards & Training (POST) Council Office. The violent episode took place in the same building as the Austell Police Department, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as Alex Ross, became enraged during a visit to the POST office on Monday, where he had been inquiring about the status of his peace officer certification.
“He wasn’t happy with something that he was told, so he punched one of the staff members, who happens to be a certified peace officer,” said Lt. Tim Allen of the Austell Police Department.
The Attack: Three Victims Hospitalized
According to a warrant obtained by police, Ross launched into a series of assaults following the initial confrontation. He allegedly struck a second certified officer and punched a civilian POST employee in the face, causing visible swelling and bruising.
“One of the police officers had a fractured bone in her face from the punch,” Allen confirmed. All three victims were hospitalized.
The victims’ names have not been released. Their current conditions are not publicly known.
Attempt to Disarm an Officer
The attack escalated dangerously when responding officers arrived on the scene.
“When officers got there, the gentleman had his hand on the officer’s gun, trying to get it out of the holster,” Allen said. “They were able to subdue him.”
The confrontation reportedly caused panic throughout the building, with staff yelling for help. Officers from the Austell Police Department responded within moments due to the shared location.
“It was definitely something that took us all by surprise, but we’re very grateful for the fast response — it could’ve gone the wrong way,” Allen added.
History of Misconduct
Ross resigned from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office in 2022, reportedly under threat of termination. Officials have not disclosed the reason for his resignation, and further inquiries have been made to Georgia POST for clarification.
He is now facing multiple felony charges, including violation of oath by a public officer — a serious offense in Georgia that applies to former and current law enforcement agents who violate their sworn duties.
Community and Institutional Impact
This incident has rattled members of the law enforcement community, particularly those within Georgia’s POST system, which oversees officer certification, training, and discipline statewide.
The fact that the attack occurred within the premises of a law enforcement oversight agency has raised questions about internal security protocols and the handling of disgruntled former officers.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing
Ross is currently in custody. No court date has been set, and it is unclear whether he has retained legal representation.
