Marshal’s Office

The Marshal’s Office, as part of DeKalb County’s law enforcement community, is committed to protect life and property, arrest violators of the law, and enforceall laws and ordinances coming within the Office’s jurisdiction.

Pride: We take great pride in our mission and duties.
Dignity: Our goal is to be respectful and compassionate.
Service: Public service and customer service is at the core of what we do.
Accuracy: We strive for 100% accuracy in carrying out our duties.

Command Staff

Marshal Kevin E. Richhardson

Marshal Kevin Richardson was officially sworn in as the 9th Marshal of the DeKalb County State Court and Chief Constable of the DeKalb County Magistrate Court on July 20, 2023. In this dual role, he leads a dedicated team of 96 personnel, including 87 sworn deputies and 9 administrative staff members.

As the law enforcement arm of the State and Magistrate Courts, the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office plays a critical role in the administration of justice. The office is responsible for executing all writs in dispossessory cases from Magistrate Court, serving civil processes from both the State and Magistrate Courts, and providing security for all State and Magistrate Court facilities.

A native of Georgia, Marshal Richardson is a proud graduate of Riverdale High School (Class of 1991). He began his law enforcement career in 1994 with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. In 2005, he joined the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office as a Deputy Marshal. Over the years, his professionalism, leadership, and commitment to public service earned him progressive promotions—serving as Lieutenant, Major, Deputy Chief, and ultimately being appointed Marshal.

Marshal Richardson is deeply committed to professional development and continuous learning. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies at Columbus State University. His professional training and certifications include:

  • Graduate, Professional Management Program, Columbus State University
  • Graduate, 77th Command Officers Development Course, University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute
  • Graduate, Chief Executive Training Course, Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
  • Recipient, FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award
  • Graduate, FBI Georgia Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS)
  • Holds Supervisor, Management, and Executive Certifications from the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council

Marshal Richardson’s leadership is grounded in integrity, accountability, and a passion for serving the community. His decades of experience reflect a steadfast commitment to justice, officer development, and the safety of all DeKalb County residents.

He is happily married to his beloved wife, and together they share the joy of raising two wonderful children. Their home is also filled with warmth and laughter thanks to their two cherished dogs, Blue and Byrdie.

Deputy Chief Anthony Vazquez

Deputy Chief Anthony Vazquez brings over a decade of diverse law enforcement experience to his leadership role within the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office. Known for his operational expertise, instructional leadership, and commitment to excellence, Deputy Chief Vazquez has consistently advanced through the ranks by demonstrating professionalism, strategic thinking, and dedication to public service.

He began his law enforcement career in July 2014 as a Police Officer with the DeKalb County Police Department, assigned to the North Central Precinct in Tucker, Georgia. In September 2016, he transferred to the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, initially serving in the Civils Unit, where he executed evictions and served civil processes. He was later reassigned to the Warrant Unit, where he spent several years executing arrest warrants issued by the Magistrate and State Courts of DeKalb County.

In April 2017, Deputy Chief Vazquez earned his Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) certification through the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office. He became a vital member of the Marshal’s Response Team, responsible for executing high-risk evictions and warrant operations. That same year, he became a certified Field Training Officer, mentoring and training new deputies.

Continuing his commitment to training and development, he earned his POST Instructor Certification in July 2019, and began conducting annual in-service training as well as other specialized instructional sessions. In August 2021, he further expanded his instructional qualifications by becoming a POST-certified Firearms Instructor, authorizing him to lead firearms training across the department.

Deputy Chief Vazquez was promoted to Lieutenant in May 2021, serving as the Support Division Commander, and later promoted to Major in August 2022, where he commanded the Court Division. His leadership, operational knowledge, and instructional experience culminated in his promotion to Deputy Chief, where he now plays a critical role in strategic planning, departmental training, court operations, and law enforcement initiatives.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (2013) and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration (2020), both from Georgia State University. His professional development includes completion of several prestigious leadership programs:

  • 91st Command Officers Development Course, University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute
  • Chief Executive Training Course, Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
  • FBI Georgia Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS)
  • Leadership DeKalb, Class of 2024
  • Management Certification, Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council

Deputy Chief Vazquez is recognized for his dedication to law enforcement, training excellence, and community safety. His leadership continues to strengthen the operational capacity and public service mission of the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

 

Court Division

Major Christopher Alvarado
Division Commander

Major Alvarado brings over 15 years of dedicated law enforcement experience to his role as Unit Commander of the Camp Circle Judicial Complex with the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to public safety, operational leadership, and professional development.

Major Alvarado began his law enforcement career in May 2008 with the DeKalb County Police Department, where he was assigned to the North Precinct. During his tenure, he became a certified Field Training Officer, responsible for mentoring and developing newly hired recruits—demonstrating early leadership and a commitment to training excellence.

In April 2016, he transitioned to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, where he was assigned to the Court Division as a courtroom deputy for the Honorable Judge Dax E. Lopez of the DeKalb County State Court. His performance in this role led to a promotion and subsequent assignment to the Inmate Transportation Unit, where he oversaw the secure movement of inmates between the DeKalb County Jail and the Decatur Courthouse.

In February 2022, Major Alvarado joined the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where he initially supported Field Operations. In May 2022, he was promoted to Lieutenant and tasked with establishing the Marshal’s newly formed Court Security Division. His leadership was instrumental in the development of the division, including the creation and implementation of policies and procedures that now guide security operations throughout the court complex.

Currently, Major Alvarado serves as Unit Commander of the Camp Circle Judicial Complex, a critical post that oversees safety and security across multiple judicial buildings supporting DeKalb County State and Magistrate Court operations. His responsibilities include strategic planning, supervisory oversight, and coordination with court personnel to ensure a secure environment for all court stakeholders.

In May 2024, Major Alvarado graduated from the Professional Management Program at Columbus State University’s Command College, further enhancing his leadership capabilities and administrative expertise.

In May 2026, Major Alvarado graduated from the prestigious Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, further enhancing his leadership skills and strategic law enforcement knowledge.

Major Alvarado is recognized for his operational insight, dedication to organizational improvement, and ability to lead with integrity in high-stakes environments.

Captain John Mason
Assistant Division Commander

Captain John Mason brings nearly two decades of experience in public safety and law enforcement to his role as Assistant Commander of the Court Security Division at the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office. His career reflects a strong foundation in emergency response, tactical operations, and leadership development.

Captain Mason began his public service career in 2006 with the DeKalb County Fire Department, where he developed essential skills in emergency response and public safety. In March 2012, he transitioned into law enforcement with the East Point Police Department, where he served with distinction and was promoted to Corporal in 2014. During his tenure there, he became a Field Training Officer, mentoring and training newly hired officers entering the profession.

In December 2017, Captain Mason joined the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and subsequently transferred to the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office in 2018, where he was assigned to the Evictions Unit. His role soon expanded when he joined the Marshal’s Response Team, where he completed specialized Hostage Negotiations Training in July 2021.

Demonstrating strong leadership and operational command, Captain Mason was promoted to Sergeant in March 2022, followed by a promotion to Lieutenant in September 2022, and ultimately to the rank of Captain in January 2023. In his current role, he serves as Assistant Commander of the Court Security Division, where he plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of court operations.

Captain Mason is a graduate of the prestigious 92nd Command Officer’s Development Course at the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute—a program recognized for preparing law enforcement leaders for senior command roles. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Columbia Southern University, and he plans to obtain his Management Certification through the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST).

Captain Mason’s career is marked by his commitment to public service, tactical readiness, and continuous professional growth. His leadership contributes to the operational excellence and mission success of the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

 

Lieutenant Ayala-Garcia
3630 Camp Circle Unit Commander

Lieutenant J. Garcia is a distinguished law enforcement professional with over 18 years of experience spanning public safety, criminal investigations, and specialized tactical operations. Currently serving as the Unit Commander for Division B and Magistrate Court operations at the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, she oversees court security, tactical response, and policy compliance under the jurisdiction of the courts.
Lt. Garcia’s career is rooted in her service to the nation. She served six years in the United States Army’s “Big Red 1” Infantry Division as a Communications Technician. Her honorable service includes a peacetime mission in Bosnia, for which she was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.
Transitioning to civilian law enforcement in 2008, Lt. Garcia’s talent was immediately recognized when she was recruited directly from the academy by the Chattanooga Police Department for a high-stakes undercover sting. Her career in Georgia has been marked by rapid advancement and versatility across the Douglasville and Chamblee Police Departments, as well as the Federal Reserve Bank, where she served as a Federal Reserve Police Sergeant and member of the Special Response Team.
A specialist in Professional Standards, Lt. Garcia has managed Internal Affairs, agency accreditation (GPAC), and background investigations. Her legacy includes training new officers as a Field Training Officer and leading a landmark undercover gambling investigation that resulted in significant asset forfeitures and arrests. Lt. Garcia holds an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice (2013) and remains committed to rigorous administrative oversight and the continuous mission of the Dekalb County Marshal’s Office.

Lieutenant Mayo
556 N. McDonough Street Unit Commander

Lieutenant Mayo brings over two decades of dedicated law enforcement experience to his leadership role as Unit Commander of the Decatur Courthouse within the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office. His extensive background in corrections, court security, and prisoner transport underscores his commitment to public safety and operational excellence.

Lt. Mayo began his career in March 2004 as a Jailer with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. In 2008, he earned his Field Training Officer certification from the Clayton Regional Law Enforcement Academy and advanced through the ranks, serving with distinction as a Corporal and Field Training Officer within the Sheriff’s Office Jail Division.

In September 2010, following completion of the Basic Law Enforcement Training Course, Lt. Mayo was promoted to Deputy Sheriff and reassigned to the Court Division. There, he played a key role in statewide and local prisoner transport operations and served as lead deputy in multiple Superior and State Court courtrooms, including several high-profile cases receiving significant media attention.

In February 2022, Lt. Mayo transferred to the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where he was initially assigned to the Evictions Unit. His leadership and expertise quickly led to his promotion to Sergeant. Following the Marshal’s Office assuming responsibility for security operations at DeKalb County State and Magistrate Courts in 2023, Lt. Mayo was promoted to Lieutenant due to his deep experience in court security and operations.

In May 2025, Lt. Mayo graduated from the prestigious Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, further enhancing his leadership skills and strategic law enforcement knowledge.

As Unit Commander for the Decatur Courthouse, Lt. Mayo oversees all aspects of courthouse security and operations, ensuring a safe and secure environment for court personnel, visitors, and the public.

Field Division

Major David Wells
Division Commander

Major David Wells began his distinguished career in public service with the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably from 1994 to 1998 with the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines. He was discharged at the rank of Corporal. In 2008, he transitioned to law enforcement, joining the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office as a jailer. After graduating from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in 2014, he became a certified deputy and served with distinction in the Field Division, earning the rank of Master Deputy Sheriff in recognition of his leadership and performance.

In 2018, Major Wells joined the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, initially assigned to the Civils Unit, where he managed evictions and civil process service. He later transferred to the Warrant Unit, executing warrants issued by DeKalb County Magistrate and State Courts.

Certified as a Field Training Officer in 2019, Major Wells took on the important role of mentoring and developing new deputies. His leadership capabilities were further recognized with a promotion to Sergeant in March 2021, overseeing the Eviction Unit. In January 2023, he was promoted to Lieutenant  as the Eviction Unit Commander for the Field Division.

In March 2026, he was promoted to the rank of Major and currently serves as the Field Division Commander.

Major Wells is a graduate of the 2024 Professional Management Program at Columbus State University, underscoring his commitment to professional development and effective leadership.

In May 2026, Major Wells graduated from the prestigious Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, further enhancing his leadership skills and strategic law enforcement knowledge.

Captain Janice Wilkerson
Assistant Division Commander

Captain Janice Wilkerson brings over two decades of law enforcement experience to her role as Assistant Field Division Commander with the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where she leads all field operations within the Field Division.

Her career in public safety began in 2004 as a Detention Officer with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, where she served in several specialized assignments including Medical Security, Traffic Court, and Magistrate Court. Demonstrating commitment and capability, she was promoted to Deputy Sheriff in Field Operations and went on to serve in the Criminal Process Unit, contributing to several high-profile initiatives including the Domestic Violence Task Force, Fugitive Task Force, and Gang Enforcement Unit.

In April 2022, Captain Wilkerson joined the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where she worked in the Field Division executing evictions and civil process service. She was promoted to Lieutenant in August 2022 where she commanded the Civil Unit, overseeing all civil process operations with a focus on accountability, service efficiency, and public safety.

Captain Wilkerson holds an Associate of Applied Science in Electronics Technology from DeKalb Technical College (2002) and is a Georgia POST-certified Manager. She also holds certifications from the Georgia Gang Investigators’ Association and other specialized law enforcement programs.

A firm believer in professional development, Captain Wilkerson is a graduate of the 92nd Command Officers Development Course and completed the prestigious Leadership for Law Enforcement Executives program at the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute.

Lieutenant Michael Edwards
Civil Unit Commander

Lieutenant Michael Edwards brings nearly two decades of law enforcement experience to his role as Civil Unit Commander with the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where he oversees civil process operations within the Field Division.

Lieutenant Edwards began his career in September 2008 as a Correctional Officer with the Georgia Department of Corrections in Valdosta, Georgia. In March 2010, he transitioned to sworn law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff with the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office, serving more than nine years in specialized assignments including Traffic, Warrants, Crime Suppression, and Special Operations.

In October 2019, he joined the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office before transferring to the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office in September 2020, where he was assigned to the Eviction Unit. His leadership drove steady advancement—promoted to Corporal in January 2022, serving as a Field Training Officer in the Field Division. In 2023, he was named Deputy of the Year. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2024, overseeing Field Division operations, and to Lieutenant in March 2026, assuming command of the Civil Unit.

Lieutenant Edwards holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology (2008), a Master of Science in Information Technology (2022), and a Master of Business Administration in IT Management (2024), both from Herzing University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration and Management at California Intercontinental University, expected in 2027.

Lt. Edwards is POST-certified in Management, Supervision, General Instructor, and Field Training. He is also a certified Six Sigma Black Belt and an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.

A devoted husband and proud father of two, Lieutenant Edwards’s leadership reflects a commitment to fairness, professionalism, and service—values that continue to strengthen the mission of the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

Lieutenant Juan Velez
Eviction Unit Commander

Lieutenant Juan D. Velez began his career in public safety with the City of Decatur Police Department as a patrol officer, where he developed a passion for law enforcement and led the department in overall arrests and DUI enforcement.

In December 2021, he joined the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where he expanded his knowledge of civil procedures, particularly in writs of possession and civil service. Through his leadership, strong work ethic, and sound decision-making, he steadily advanced through the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant, and Lieutenant.

In his current role as Eviction Unit Commander, Lieutenant Velez leads the unit responsible for executing eviction orders issued by the DeKalb County State and Magistrate Courts. He takes pride in supervising an amazing, dedicated team of professionals who consistently exceed expectations and uphold a high standard of service.

Lieutenant Velez holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Georgia “Go Dawgs!” and a Master of Divinity from Trinity University in Deerfield, Illinois. He is a POST-certified General Instructor and Firearms Instructor and has earned several distinguished certifications, including the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award and the FBI-LEEDA Master Public Information Officer certification.

Outside of law enforcement, Lieutenant Velez enjoys spending time with his spouse and their four children. He looks forward to annual trips to Disney World and beach vacations throughout the year. One of the most rewarding aspects of his life is opportunity to invest in others and helping individuals achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Support Services

DeKalb Marshals Office

Major Anthony Cappuccio
Division Commander

Major Anthony Cappuccio brings over two decades of combined military and law enforcement experience to his role as Court Division Commander with the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office. His career reflects a strong commitment to public service, leadership, tactical expertise, and professional development.

Major Cappuccio began his service to the nation in 2001 when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably with Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, rising to the rank of Sergeant and serving as an Infantry Squad Leader. Following his active-duty service, he transitioned into law enforcement, where he has continued to demonstrate the discipline and leadership honed in the military.

Throughout his 20-year law enforcement career, Major Cappuccio has served in multiple agencies, including the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Fulton County Marshal’s Office, City of Avondale Estates Police Department, and currently, the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

Since joining the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, he has held a variety of key leadership and operational roles, including:

  • Lead Departmental Instructor
  • Department Range Master
  • Lieutenant over the Civil Process Unit
  • Lieutenant over the Eviction Unit
  • Commander of the Marshal Entry Team
  • Current Court Division Commander

Major Cappuccio is a Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (GA POST) certified:

  • General Instructor
  • Firearms Instructor
  • Defensive Tactics Instructor
  • Use of Force Instructor

He also holds certifications as a Field Training Officer and has earned the Managerial Certification through the GA POST Council.

A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Major Cappuccio earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Kennesaw State University in 1999 and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration at Columbus State University.

His leadership training includes graduation from several premier programs:

  • Southern Police Institute, University of Louisville
  • Chief Executive Training Class, Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
  • Leadership DeKalb, Class of 2025

Major Cappuccio exemplifies professionalism, operational excellence, and a commitment to public service. His leadership continues to contribute significantly to the mission and effectiveness of the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

DeKalb Marshals Office

Captain Anthony Robinson
Assistant Division Commander

Captain Anthony Robinson began his law enforcement career in April 2015 with the City of Decatur Police Department, where he served as a Police Officer dedicated to community-oriented policing and public safety. In July 2021, he brought his skills and commitment to the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office, where he was initially assigned to the Evictions Unit.

Recognized quickly for his leadership potential, Captain Robinson was promoted to Corporal in July 2022, where he played an integral role in departmental training and staff development. In January 2023, he was promoted to Captain and now commands the Support Services Division, which includes oversight of Supply, Training, Information Technology, Special Projects, and the Marshal’s Response Team (MRT).

Captain Robinson is a graduate of the prestigious Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, where he completed advanced leadership and management training. He is currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and remains committed to continuous professional growth.

He holds several Georgia POST Council certifications, including Field Training Officer, General Instructor, Use of Force Instructor, Firearms Instructor, and Managerial Certification.

Captain Robinson brings a forward-thinking approach to law enforcement leadership and is instrumental in supporting the operational readiness and strategic initiatives of the DeKalb County Marshal’s Office.

 

 

DeKalb County Marshals Office

Location 1 Address :

DeKalb County Courthouse
556 N. McDonough Street, Ste G10 Ground Floor
Decatur, GA 30030

Phone:

Office: 404-371-2930
Fax:404-371-2260

Hours of Operation:

8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Monday throught Friday (except holidays)

Location 2 Address :

DeKalb County State Court Division B &
Magistrate Criminal and Ordinance Courts
3630 Camp Circle
Decatur, GA 30030

Phone:

Office: 404-294-2107
Fax:404-371-2260

Hours of Operation:

8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m
Monday through Friday (Public)
5:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m. (Law Enforcement)