July 14. A Cornelius Police officer has been placed on leave during after being arrested by Concord Police over the weekend. Cpl. George Brinzey was off duty when he was stopped for speeding on July 12 and later charged with impaired driving.
He was most recently assigned to Cornelius’ lake patrol unit.
Brinzey
Brinzey was charged with reckless driving, speeding, unregistered vehicle and fictitious tag/no insurance.
Quotable
“Following department policy, we will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident and take all necessary actions. Our daily commitment is to earn and maintain the trust of our community. We have a responsibility to ensure accountability for anyone who violates the law,” Chief David Baucom said.
Is this a paid leave?
A Letter of Support: George Brinzey
As someone who has known and respected George Brinzey for many years, I feel compelled to speak up—not just as a friend, but on behalf of a man whose dedication to this community has never wavered until now.
George has served Cornelius with honor, humility, and heart. Whether patrolling the lake, mentoring our youth, or simply offering a helping hand to neighbors in need, George has made an impact felt far beyond his uniform. He’s been a calming presence during emergencies and a patient educator on matters of safety. Many can recall a time when George chose to guide instead of punish —giving residents the benefit of doubt and extending mercy over strict enforcement.
That’s why this moment, while serious, must be met with more than swift judgment. I respect Chief Baucom’s commitment to transparency and accountability; that is the cornerstone of trust in public service. But I also believe we must recognize the full measure of an individual—not only their worst moment, but the years of service, sacrifice, and compassion that came before it.
This is not the time to turn our backs or remain silent. It’s time to stand up for someone who has stood by us. We’ve all made mistakes—some public, some private—but if we believe in redemption, then we must be willing to extend grace, especially to those who have spent years doing right by others.
To those quick to judge: remember the times George showed you or someone you love understanding and fairness. He deserves nothing less in return. One bad decision should not define a man who has given our town so many good memories and meaningful contributions.
Let us support George as he takes accountability and finds his way forward. True justice isn’t just about punishment, it’s about understanding, healing, and, above all, forgiveness. If this had been your father, your brother, your neighbor —wouldn’t you hope for the same?
Let’s show that Cornelius is a community that remembers character, stands by its people, and knows that grace in hard times speaks louder than judgment ever could.
Joe vagnone
Cornelius Resident & Supporter of Service member with Heart
He broke the law. He needs to be held accountable. Working as a LEO does not put you above the law.
So many violations. No insurance. No vehicle registration. Speeding! Reckless driving! DWI! If he would have had a accident with injury, who would have paid the bills. There was no insurance on the car. Joe, I get that you’re friends with George and he may be a good man, but come on!!!! If he had been in an accident with loss of life, would you be standing up for him? His position demands better! Our police must abide by the law. Police are the examples.
Go to any courthouse in America and you will see Justitia or more commonly known as Lady Justice. She is blindfolded and holds scales. Scales represent fairness and balance. The blindfold represents impartiality which is one of the cornerstones of the American justice system. All men are created equal under the law. Good deeds and a wholesome lifestyle does NOT give a person “credits” to use when they break the law or in this case MULTIPLE laws. There are no “get out of jail free” cards in the real game of life. This officer maybe a wonderful person but that doesn’t mean he should not be held accountable for his indiscretions and clear lack of judgment. How would you feel if he had slammed his unregistered vehicle into an innocent family? What if someone died in that accident? Would you still write this opinion? Where is the line of morality for you? Now I am sure you are saying “But no one did die and this was a victimless crime. Crime being a keyword in this discussion but laws (especially traffic laws) were created when too many citizens were killed and a public standard of protection needed to be put into place.
No sir, even George is accountable for his actions and clearly does not deserve a “pass”.
Yes yes yes!
We love you George!
I bet the Concord police are taking a beating from the police union over this.
Couldn’t have happened to a better guy. Concord Police Department did the right thing.
George has been professional as it gets on the water. We’ve talked to him several times while boating on lake Norman. Was always relieved to see him knowing law enforcement was present. Sorry to hear about the latest charges against him.