Four Atlanta Police Recruits Separated After Off-Duty Incident, Firearm Discharge

ATLANTA, GA – The Atlanta Police Department (APD) announced Tuesday, July 22, 2025, that four police recruits have been separated from the Department following off-duty conduct that did not meet the agency’s standards. The APD confirmed it took swift action and opened an internal investigation upon learning of the situation.

The incident occurred at a business in the City of East Point, outside of APD’s jurisdiction.

According to the APD, the recruits were asked to leave the business and subsequently became involved in a dispute with a member of the establishment’s security team. During this altercation, one recruit discharged a firearm. The department clarified that the recruits had not yet completed their required training and were not celebrating their Police Academy graduation.

The Atlanta Police Department emphasized its commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and conduct for all its members, both on and off duty. “Actions that compromise the public’s trust or jeopardize community safety will not be tolerated. This incident does not reflect the values or expectations of the Atlanta Police Department,” the statement read.