Winder police officer retires after 30 years of service

The following was released by the City of Winder

WINDER, Ga. – After more than three decades of service to the Winder Police Department, Captain Robert P. Curott will officially retire on Aug. 4, 2025. In recognition of his leadership and dedication to public safety, the Winder City Council presented him with the Key to the City at its July 8 meeting.

Captain Curott has served in nearly every division of the Winder Police Department over the course of his career. He joined the department in 1994 as a patrol officer and went on to serve as a housing officer, shift supervisor, K-9 handler, patrol commander, Criminal Investigative Division commander, and operations commander. He also worked in undercover narcotics. Known for his steady presence, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to public safety, Curott has helped guide the department through decades of growth and change.

“Captain Curott is a true public servant. His knowledge, integrity, and steady leadership have helped shape the Winder Police Department over the past 30 years. He has many great traits but his most significant trait is his innate ability to positively impact people—community and coworkers,” said City of Winder Police Chief Jim Fullington.

Winder Mayor Jimmy Terrell echoed the sentiment: “In the military, we have a saying for men like you—you’re one who runs toward danger, not away from it. That kind of courage is rare. But what makes you even more extraordinary is that you didn’t just show up when things were difficult—you showed up every day, for everyone. You’ve been a steady hand, a calming presence, and someone this City could always count on. Men like you are hard to find, and Winder is better because we found you.”

Key to the CityThe Winder City Council presented Curott with The Key to the City at their July 8 meeting. Council Member Kobi Kilgore, who has known Captain Curott for most of his career, delivered moving remarks during the presentation.

“Captain Curott, your name has become synonymous with service, sacrifice, and heart,” Kilgore said. “You didn't just serve Winder — you loved Winder. And we felt it. In every patrol, in every decision, in every act of compassion and courage, your care for this City has always been personal. You've protected our streets, our families, and our future — often without recognition, without rest, and without hesitation. The Key to the City is a symbol — not just of honor, but of belonging. Because you have opened your heart to all of us, and we are forever better for it.”

A Legacy of Leadership and ServiceThe Key to the City is one of Winder’s highest honors, representing the City’s deep appreciation for Captain Curott’s lasting impact and unwavering service.

Captain Curott was instrumental in the implementation of several law enforcement technologies for the department, served as system administrator for key platforms, managed grants and equipment purchasing, and oversaw patrol, investigations, and support services. He also brought a strong background in officer training, having served as an instructor in community policing, defensive tactics, taser, firearms, and general law enforcement.

A graduate of multiple leadership programs, including those through the Carl Vinson Institute at the University of Georgia and Columbus State University, Curott also holds an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Technologies and has accumulated more than 3,400 hours of law enforcement training.

In addition to his law enforcement duties, Captain Curott has served the broader community as treasurer of Barrow County’s Local Emergency Planning Committee, a security volunteer at Bethlehem Church, and a graduate of Leadership Barrow. He will continue serving the public in his next role as a Security Technology Coordinator for the Barrow County School Board.