Johnson promises to be 'fair and honest to all parties'

Charles Oliver, The Daily Citizen, Dalton, Ga.
·2 min read

May 8—For the past 20 years, Wallace "Wally" Johnson III served with the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office, the last 18 years as a patrol deputy. He said that experience, along with his formal training in law enforcement and criminal justice, have prepared him to be a magistrate judge. He faces Scotty Martin in the May 21 nonpartisan election to fill a magistrate judge position currently held by Gayle Gazaway, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Dalton Daily Citizen: Why are you seeking office?

Johnson: I am seeking the position of magistrate judge because magistrate judges play a crucial role in court proceedings, handling important tasks such as civil cases under $15,000, presiding over landlord-tenant disputes or evictions, county ordnances, issue arrest warrants/search warrants for law enforcement and first appearance, when defendants are informed of their charges. I also wish to continue the fairness, professionalism and dedication that Gayle Gazaway has provided during her time in office.

DDC: What makes you the most qualified candidate?

Johnson: I feel that I am the most qualified candidate because of my education and law enforcement experience. I have two associate degrees from Dalton State College. The first is an associate of applied science in law enforcement. The second is an associate of science in criminal justice. I worked for the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office for 20 years. I started answering the phone and transferring calls to the correct divisions, then I was transferred to Booking/Detention, once mandated I spent one year in the Narcotics Unit and then 18 years in Uniform Patrol.

DDC: What will be your top three priorities if elected?

Johnson: If elected my first priority will be to educate myself by completing all the necessary training and classes needed for the position as soon as possible. Following that I will always be fair and honest to all parties that come through Magistrate Court. Thirdly, I will manage my caseload effectively to ensure citizens receive justice as quickly as possible while adhering to the law.

DDC: What are your views regarding government transparency?

Johnson: I feel that government transparency is important. People need and want to be informed. By being transparent you keep the people's trust. Also having transparency, it keeps the government and its officials accountable for their actions.

DDC: In just a few words, what else would you like to tell the community about your background, experience, education, qualifications or why a voter should vote for you?

Johnson: I am Wallace "Wally" Johnson III. I was born and raised in Dalton. My family has lived in this community for four generations. I love Whitfield County. I love Dalton. I would like to earn every vote I can get, in hopes to become the next magistrate judge. My education and work experience have prepared me to the job of magistrate judge. I want to serve our community and those who need the court.