After Cheating Scandal, GA State Patrol Head Announces Retirement

ATLANTA, GA — The 30 Georgia State Patrol members involved in an exam cheating scandal were dismissed. Now, two weeks later, the agency’s director has announced his retirement.

Public Safety Commissioner Mark McDonough tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Gov. Brian Kemp let him know that he wanted someone else in the top position. McDonough’ last day is March 1.

The governor's office shared a statement with WAGA: “My family and I thank Colonel McDonough for his dedicated service, leadership, and sacrifice. We wish him the very best in the years ahead."

McDonough said he wasn’t given a reason for why he was being let go, but assumes it’s because of the recent scandal.

The investigation revealed that the Georgia troopers had cheated on an online examination using a variety of methods. They are all members of the 106th trooper school. On Oct. 8, 2019, officials said an allegation was made that everyone at the school had cheated during an online examination for the speed detector operator component of the trooper school curriculum. This test is required in order for troopers to be certified in operating a speed gun.