The DeKalb County Police Department, following an incident on October 20, 2025, terminated Officer Glen Weaver, a veteran member of the force. The confrontation occurred at the Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Library in Tucker, Georgia, during early voting, as reported by internal records. Officer Weaver approached a transgender individual, Sasha Rose Swinson, directing them to use a different restroom after a complaint from a mother with children was lodged.
"I’m actually a little saddened by that," said Sasha Rose Swinson. "But again, if it prevents harassment of the next trans person, I suppose that’s all for the good."
According to the internal records, Officer Weaver took action when the parent expressed concern over Swinson, who identifies as female, entering the women's restroom. Security officer Victor Reed confirmed that numerous women and children were present when Swinson entered. The mother's visible distress prompted Weaver’s intervention. Swinson recounted the interaction as embarrassing, stating that Weaver suggested she use the men's or a family restroom, allegedly pointing out that it was "obvious" she was not a woman. Swinson clarified to The Center Square’s Johnny Edwards that, while regretful of Weaver's job loss, she believed the outcome might prevent future harassment of transgender individuals.
Officer Weaver, aged 70, who had already retired after 28 years on the force but continued part-time as a reserve officer, defended his actions. He contended he acted calmly, politely, and discreetly, disputing the use of the word “obvious” in the encounter. He also mentioned a technical malfunction which prevented his bodycam from recording the event.
The case has drawn national attention, with Weaver expressing frustration over the impact on his private security work, particularly in the Atlanta film industry. DeKalb County's policy allows individuals to use restrooms that match their gender identity, and in 2023, passed an ordinance to prevent discrimination based on perceived gender identity. However, this local stance contrasts with Georgia law, which still enforces gender separation in certain public facilities.
Weaver's dismissal was not solely due to the restroom confrontation. His Internal Affairs file noted procedural deviations, such as failing to activate his bodycam, working at the voting site without prior authorization, and insufficient communication with dispatch. Despite these being his first-time offenses, department leaders overruled the standard procedure, recommending termination over written counseling.
The incident has ignited discussions among community members and legal experts. Beth Parlato, a senior attorney at the Independent Women’s Law Center, commended Weaver for "standing up for reality and common sense." Conservative voices have decried the firing as an overstep, advocating for officers' authority to ensure the privacy and security of women and children in public areas. On the other hand, proponents of Swinson's rights argue the termination underscores the county's dedication to LGBT protections.
Despite the job loss, Officer Weaver continues to receive a $3,400 monthly pension and teaches firearms classes to airline pilots. He asserts the confrontation was in defense of public safety and privacy, viewing the termination as a result of a politically charged atmosphere. As he put it, "They just wanted me to go away... This came from up top, and it's really frustrating."
The unfolding situation underscores the broader conflict between inclusive local policies and the tangible concerns surrounding public safety, privacy, and practical protections in communal spaces. The debate highlights the need for clear policy guidelines to empower law enforcement officers to maintain safety without the risk of political repercussions.
