Support is pouring in for Houston County Deputy Robert Johnson as he fights a rare form of cancer that has significantly impacted his health in recent months. His colleagues describe him as lively and hardworking, and they are now stepping up to assist him in his time of need.
“It has been extremely emotional for his family, friends, and all of us who know Rob,” said Monica Lee, a close friend and coworker. “He’s such a genuine person. Seeing him go through this is heartbreaking, but any support we can give lifts his spirits and reminds him to keep fighting.”
Johnson was diagnosed in August with malignant sarcoma in his leg — a rare cancer that affects the soft tissue and is currently impacting a nerve sheath, making treatment more complex.
He began chemotherapy at UAB Hospital in Birmingham in September, spending a week undergoing treatment before returning home. Shortly after, Johnson experienced severe side effects that led to multiple hospitalizations at Southeast Health and Encompass Health. His most recent admission was just this week.
Doctors have expressed serious concerns about his health. “They said his organs were failing,” Lee explained. “Right now, he’s taking 17 different medications.”
In addition to the medical battle, traveling back and forth for treatment has created a heavy financial strain. Johnson is now seeking a local oncologist to help him continue care closer to home, which would ease both the physical and financial burden.
To help reduce that stress, Lee has launched a GoFundMe page to support Johnson — a single father — as well as his parents and daughter, who have been by his side throughout this journey.
“As a cancer survivor myself, I know firsthand how tough it is,” Lee said. “Having the support of others and knowing people are standing with you makes all the difference.”
Community members are also stepping up. The Kinsey Police Department is holding a fundraiser this weekend, selling food plates to help cover Johnson’s medical expenses. Their hope is to see him healthy and back serving at the Houston County Courthouse.
“The support of the community will mean so much to him,” Lee said.
Henry County Sheriff’s Office is proud to welcome their two newest deputies to the team — Deputy Quintan Quintana and Deputy Declin Greene.
Both gentlemen began their careers in law enforcement as correctional officers before advancing to their new roles as deputy sheriffs.
Sheriff Eric Blankenship had the distinguished honor of serving as the Keynote Speaker for the Wiregrass Law Enforcement Academy Class 008 graduation ceremony, where these outstanding officers were recognized for their accomplishments.
We applaud Deputies Quintana and Greene for their dedication, professionalism, and continued commitment to serving the citizens of Henry County. Congratulations to both on this well-earned achievement!
A seat at the table: A Thanksgiving Dinner for anyone in need,
Good News Ministries is once again opening its doors and hearts to the community through its Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for the homeless and individuals in need. The event will be held on November 23, 2025, at 12:00 AM, located at 208 W. Newton Street.
This special gathering provides not only a warm, traditional Thanksgiving meal, but also fellowship, hope, and encouragement during a season focused on gratitude and giving. Good News Ministries invites anyone facing hardship, hunger, or loneliness to join them for a comforting meal and a reminder that they are not forgotten.
Community members who wish to help make this event a success are encouraged to donate needed items or contribute financially. Every contribution—large or small—helps ensure that plates are full and hearts are touched.
For item drop-offs, pick-up details, or monetary donations, please contact Good News Ministries at(334) 405-9844. Cash app donations can be sent to $gnmnda—please label all donations with “Thanksgiving Dinner” in the notes.
As Good News Ministries continues its mission to serve with compassion and faith, they extend thanks to all who support their outreach efforts. Together, the community can help ensure that every person has a place to feel welcome this Thanksgiving season.
Terry’s Boiled Peanuts are ready on the corner of South State Hwy 109 and Hwy 605. Right across from ANB Hardware and Sporting Goods. I will be here until we sell out
The Flowery Branch Police Department has appointed John R. Powell as its new deputy chief, adding another milestone to his lengthy and eventful law enforcement career.
Powell has spent more than four decades in policing, including a notable four-year period leading the Dothan Police Department in Alabama. His professional path, however, has not been without turbulence — including arrests, legal battles, and a high-profile dismissal from a South Georgia agency.
While working in Glynn County, Powell became the subject of a criminal investigation when a grand jury indicted him on perjury charges. Prosecutors accused him of providing false statements to conceal a relationship between a narcotics officer and a confidential informant. The case ultimately unraveled when the Georgia Supreme Court overturned the charges.
Powell’s time in Dothan was marked by friction within the department. Internal disputes led to strong criticism from some officers, who claimed he mishandled operations and pushed for his removal. Tensions affected relationships with his command staff and contributed to a strained rapport with the local press.
Supporters, however, argued that Powell was met with resistance from an entrenched “good-old-boy” network that opposed a chief brought in from outside the community — especially after the department had faced a series of public scandals.
Despite the controversy, Powell initiated several significant actions during his tenure:
• He reopened the long-dormant case involving the 1978 killing of Dothan Officer Robert Jackson, later granting the fallen officer a posthumous promotion. • He oversaw a major incident at a medical clinic in which an armed suspect ultimately surrendered peacefully, avoiding serious injury to civilians or officers.
Before arriving in Dothan, Powell had run unsuccessfully for sheriff in Florida’s Escambia County. He sought the office again after leaving Alabama, but that campaign was disrupted when investigators accused him of breaching campaign finance reporting rules. Powell maintained the allegations were politically driven.
Powell recently stepped into his duties as deputy chief in Flowery Branch, marking a new chapter in a career defined by both leadership opportunities and significant controversy.
DOTHAN: The Thanksgiving tradition continues at SMOKEY JOE’S BAR-B-QUE and CATERING.
You need to place your order by Monday. Cut off date for placing orders is November 24 by 5:00 PM. All orders must be picked by November 26 by 7:00 PM.
Located at 2031 South Brannon Stand Road, between Fortner Street and Flowers Chapel Road on Alabama 605. Phone number 334-678-8116. Web site is smokeyjoesdothan.com
Smoked Turkey – whole turkey, brought-in-turkey, Sliced Turkey Breast, Sliced Hickory Smoked Ham, Dressing – Amanda’s homemade recipe, made completely from scratch, Giblet Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, Chicken & Dumplings, Squash Casserole, Corn Casserole, Sweet Potato Casserole, Mac and Cheese, Cabbage, Green Beans, butterbeans, Peach Cobbler, Banana pudding, Strawberry Shortcake, Peanut Butter Cake, Gallon of Tea.
Terry’s Boiled Peanuts are ready on the corner of South State Hwy 109 and Hwy 605. Right across from ANB Hardware and Sporting Goods. I will be here until we sell out
