His governor-imposed suspension behind him, Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch intends to return to work Tuesday, according to his attorney.
Blake Poole issued a statement Monday afternoon saying, “I am pleased to announce that Sheriff Couch will return to active duty as Hall County Sheriff tomorrow, June 16, 2026.”
Couch was suspended by Gov. Kemp in March after he was charged with DUI and failing to maintain lead in February.
“Sheriff Couch is fit for duty and eager to get back to work for the people of Hall County,” Poole continued. “He has used this time away from the office to reflect on his commitment to public service and to the community he has dedicated his career to protecting.”
Monday’s announcement also follows a court hearing last week when he filed a motion to have the charges against his client dismissed. The judge who is handling the case has yet to rule on that motion.
“We ask that the public and media respect the pendency of the ongoing legal matter and allow Sheriff Couch the opportunity to do what he does best, lead the Hall County Sheriff’s Office and work toward making Hall County a safer, stronger place to live and raise a family.
Sheriff Couch is grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and looks forward to getting back to the important work ahead,” Poole concluded.