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Timeline: The key events surrounding the 1985 double murder of a Southeast Georgia husband and wife
Read full article: Timeline: The key events surrounding the 1985 double murder of a Southeast Georgia husband and wifeNearly 40 years after the double murder of a Southeast Georgia wife and husband, officials announced the arrest of a 61-year-old man in connection with the couple’s shooting death.
Crime analyst shares insights into authorities may proceed with remains, vehicle found in Glynn County pond
Read full article: Crime analyst shares insights into authorities may proceed with remains, vehicle found in Glynn County pondGlynn County police said its investigators, along with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, are examining the discovery of human remains inside a submerged car found in a pond near Interstate 95.
Human remains found in submerged vehicle possibly linked to 1980 missing persons case in Glynn County
Read full article: Human remains found in submerged vehicle possibly linked to 1980 missing persons case in Glynn CountyGlynn County police said its investigators, along with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, are examining the discovery of human remains inside a submerged car found in a pond near Interstate 95.
GBI finds Jeep rented by Jacksonville-based Navy sailor in Georgia river near where his body was discovered
Read full article: GBI finds Jeep rented by Jacksonville-based Navy sailor in Georgia river near where his body was discoveredOn Tuesday, GBI announced that the Georgia State Patrol dive team had located the Jeep Compass rented by Devin Jeter before his disappearance.
‘It just rocked our world’: Family of Navy sailor found dead in Georgia says Thanksgiving will be hard without him
Read full article: ‘It just rocked our world’: Family of Navy sailor found dead in Georgia says Thanksgiving will be hard without himThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation is asking for help from the community after the body of a 25-year-old Navy sailor, who was stationed in Jacksonville, was found in a Georgia river.
Body of Jacksonville-based Navy sailor found in Georgia river. GBI asks for community’s help in investigation
Read full article: Body of Jacksonville-based Navy sailor found in Georgia river. GBI asks for community’s help in investigationThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation is asking for help from the community after the body of a 25-year-old Navy sailor, who was stationed in Jacksonville, was found in a Georgia river.
Leonard Cure’s family to file $16M lawsuit against Camden Sheriff’s Office, deputy involved in fatal shooting
Read full article: Leonard Cure’s family to file $16M lawsuit against Camden Sheriff’s Office, deputy involved in fatal shootingThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation into the shooting of Leonard Cure, who spent more than 16 years in prison in Florida before being exonerated in a 2003 robbery.
She helped GBI make a big break in the ‘Baby Jane Doe’ case. An infamous Duval child murder led her to law enforcement
Read full article: She helped GBI make a big break in the ‘Baby Jane Doe’ case. An infamous Duval child murder led her to law enforcementGBI Agent Taylor Hundley didn’t know it then, but Maddie Clifton’s murder would change her life and ultimately lead her to help make a breakthrough in one of the most notorious unsolved cases in her hometown — a case involving a little girl who died the same year Hundley was born.
How investigators solved Ware County ‘Baby Jane Doe’ case
Read full article: How investigators solved Ware County ‘Baby Jane Doe’ caseAgents with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and Ware County Sheriff’s Office investigators never gave up hope that a “Baby Jane Doe” found in 1988 would one day have her name back.
In 1988, he was with a group that found the remains of ‘Baby Jane Doe’ in Georgia. It has haunted him ever since
Read full article: In 1988, he was with a group that found the remains of ‘Baby Jane Doe’ in Georgia. It has haunted him ever sinceLewis Jenkins doesn’t remember exactly where they found the girl who came to be known as "Baby Jane Doe" for the next 35 years, but he does remember she was wearing white.
What do deputies see when they pull you over? Former police supervisor answers big questions
Read full article: What do deputies see when they pull you over? Former police supervisor answers big questionsAs the Monday morning traffic stop death of Leonard Cure, 53, in Camden County remains under investigation, News4JAX is looking at what happens during a traffic stop, what officers and deputies know when they pull behind someone, and what can be done to minimize danger on both sides.
Man shot, killed by deputy in Camden County after resisting arrest at traffic stop: GBI
Read full article: Man shot, killed by deputy in Camden County after resisting arrest at traffic stop: GBIThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating a Monday morning deputy-involved shooting incident that left a man dead. GBI reports the man resisted arrest during a traffic stop.
Troopers who fatally shot a 'Cop City' activist near Atlanta won't be charged, prosecutor says
Read full article: Troopers who fatally shot a 'Cop City' activist near Atlanta won't be charged, prosecutor saysGeorgia state troopers who shot and killed an environmental activist at the site of a planned police and firefighter training center near Atlanta will not be charged.
Video shows Camden County corrections officer pushing inmate into glass door; NAACP says jail needs culture change
Read full article: Video shows Camden County corrections officer pushing inmate into glass door; NAACP says jail needs culture changeVideo obtained by News4JAX shows a corrections officer in the Camden County jail pushing an inmate into a glass door before the inmate loses consciousness.
5 arrested, accused in connection to murder of man on Gilligan’s Island in Georgia
Read full article: 5 arrested, accused in connection to murder of man on Gilligan’s Island in GeorgiaFive people were arrested Friday and accused in connection with the murder of a man in St. Marys, according to police.
3 activists arrested after their fund bailed out protestors of Atlanta's 'Cop City'
Read full article: 3 activists arrested after their fund bailed out protestors of Atlanta's 'Cop City'Police have arrested three key organizers supporting people protesting Atlanta's proposed police and fire training center, which opponents call “Cop City.”.
Autopsy: 'Cop City' protester had hands raised when killed
Read full article: Autopsy: 'Cop City' protester had hands raised when killedA slain protester's family says an environmental activist in Georgia was sitting cross-legged with their hands in the air when they were fatally shot by a state trooper.
Police video from 'Cop City' operation doesn't show shooting
Read full article: Police video from 'Cop City' operation doesn't show shootingNewly released Atlanta police body camera video shows officers clearing tents from the site of a planned public safety training center and then reacting after they heard the barrage of gunfire that left an environmental activist dead and a state trooper injured.
3 Camden County Sheriff’s Office employees arrested, charged in inmate’s beating
Read full article: 3 Camden County Sheriff’s Office employees arrested, charged in inmate’s beatingFollowing an investigation that involved the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday announced the arrests of three employees they said were involved in the beating of a 41-year-old inmate inside the county jail.
Family seeks federal inquiry into Georgia drug raid death
Read full article: Family seeks federal inquiry into Georgia drug raid deathAttorneys for the family of a Georgia woman killed by gunfire last year as sheriff's deputies executed a search warrant at her cousin's home are calling for the Justice Department to investigate, arguing the deadly raid echoes the fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky.
GBI arrests juvenile correctional officer, charges him with murder
Read full article: GBI arrests juvenile correctional officer, charges him with murderThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday announced the arrest of a Waycross juvenile correctional officer on a charge of second-degree murder and other charges.
Camden County man indicted on felony murder in death of cousin during drug raid
Read full article: Camden County man indicted on felony murder in death of cousin during drug raidA Camden County man who fired at deputies who were serving a search warrant before dawn at his home in May 2021 has been indicted on a felony murder charge because a woman was shot and killed during his exchange of gunfire with deputies, prosecutors announced Friday.
Deputies involved in death of Georgia mother during raid won’t be charged, DA says
Read full article: Deputies involved in death of Georgia mother during raid won’t be charged, DA saysGlynn County District Attorney Keith Higgins announced Wednesday that law enforcement officers involved in an incident that resulted in the death of Latoya James during a drug raid last year will not be charged with a crime.
Georgia lawmakers push through election probe regulation
Read full article: Georgia lawmakers push through election probe regulationA Georgia law enforcement agency would have authority to initiate investigations of election crimes under the latest voting regulation approved by the Republican-controlled state Legislature.
All 5 escaped Georgia inmates captured, GBI says
Read full article: All 5 escaped Georgia inmates captured, GBI saysFive inmates who escaped from Pulaski County Law Enforcement Center, prompting a “Blue Alert” and a manhunt, are now in custody again, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced early Wednesday morning on social media.
GBI searching for man wanted in Folkston murder
Read full article: GBI searching for man wanted in Folkston murderThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation ajnd the Folkston Police Department are asking for the public’s help finding a 33-year-old man who they identify as a suspect in the fatal shooting of Javarr Nelson on August 1 at Nelson’s home in Folkston.
Man accused of shooting Georgia police officer working his first shift in custody
Read full article: Man accused of shooting Georgia police officer working his first shift in custodyA man accused of shooting a Georgia police officer has been arrested, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced Sunday.
Missing 20-year-old Brunswick man found dead of gunshot wound
Read full article: Missing 20-year-old Brunswick man found dead of gunshot woundWithin 90 minutes of a 20-year-old man being reported missing early Tuesday morning, officers found his body a few blocks away, according to the Brunswick Police Department.
Cousin of woman killed during raid by Camden County deputies arrested
Read full article: Cousin of woman killed during raid by Camden County deputies arrestedThe cousin of a 37-year-old Camden County woman who was shot and killed as deputies serving a drug-related search warrant in May was arrested Wednesday.
Georgia House speaker proposes 1K bonus for police, deputies
Read full article: Georgia House speaker proposes 1K bonus for police, deputiesGeorgia’s House speaker said Wednesday he will seek $75 million in the state budget to give each police officer and sheriff’s deputy a $1,000 bonus, increase salaries for prosecutors and public defenders and bolster the capacity of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Family of Georgia woman killed during raid to sue Camden sheriff’s office for $25M
Read full article: Family of Georgia woman killed during raid to sue Camden sheriff’s office for $25MFamily members, friends and activists showed up to the Camden County courthouse on Thursday to show support for Latoya James who was shot and killed in her cousin’s home as deputies served a search warrant at home in Woodbine.
Ex-Brunswick prosecutor subject of grand jury investigation, report says
Read full article: Ex-Brunswick prosecutor subject of grand jury investigation, report saysThe former Brunswick prosecutor who has come under fire for her office's treatment of the Ahmaud Arbery case is reportedly the subject of a grand jury investigation.
Sheriff: Cashier fatally shot after argument over face masks
Read full article: Sheriff: Cashier fatally shot after argument over face masksA sheriff says a grocery store cashier has been killed in a shooting and three others wounded followed an argument over wearing face masks at an Atlanta-area supermarket.
Officer hospitalized in 1 of 2 South Georgia shootouts with police
Read full article: Officer hospitalized in 1 of 2 South Georgia shootouts with policeAn Adel police officer was struck several times Saturday morning in a shootout with a gunman -- one of two shootouts between South Georgia police and suspects in just over 24 hours.
Tips about gang activity lead to raids, arrests at 2 Waycross complexes, GBI says
Read full article: Tips about gang activity lead to raids, arrests at 2 Waycross complexes, GBI saysGBI agents raided two apartment complexes Friday after tips about gang activity they received from the public and other law enforcement agencies, according to a release from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
GBI releases bodycam in deadly shooting as deputies served warrant
Read full article: GBI releases bodycam in deadly shooting as deputies served warrantTwo days after a woman was shot and killed as Camden County deputies were serving a drug-related search warrant at a home, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has released footage from a deputy-worn body cam.
Woman fatally shot as deputies served warrant was ‘glued at the hip’ with daughter, pastor says
Read full article: Woman fatally shot as deputies served warrant was ‘glued at the hip’ with daughter, pastor saysThe family of a woman who was shot and killed as Camden County deputies were serving a drug-related search warrant at a home want answers.
Woman killed, man shot in exchange of gunfire as Camden County deputies serve search warrant
Read full article: Woman killed, man shot in exchange of gunfire as Camden County deputies serve search warrantTwo people were shot -- one fatally -- while Camden County deputies were serving a search warrant before dawn Tuesday morning on U.S. 17 near Woodbine, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Georgia police shoot and kill man after kidnapping, chase
Read full article: Georgia police shoot and kill man after kidnapping, chaseSTATESBORO, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is looking into a fatal shooting by police officers that came at the end of a kidnapping and multi-county chase. Investigators said a man kidnapped someone at gunpoint on Sunday morning in Reidsville. Investigators say the man also tried to ram multiple police vehicles during the chase, with officers trying to force the man to stop multiple times before succeeding on I-16 in Bulloch County. After the vehicle was stopped, police say the man took the hostage at gunpoint and crossed a fence into the backyard of a house. The hostage escaped and officers from multiple agencies shot the man, the GBI said.
Georgia deputy dies days after being shot during car chase
Read full article: Georgia deputy dies days after being shot during car chaseHe had been in critical condition since he was shot inside his car Saturday afternoon during the pursuit, according to the agency. Troy Arthur Phillips, 40, and Brad Phillips, 41, were both arrested following the chase, which began with an attempted traffic stop, officials said. AdA Seminole County deputy was trying to stop a white Chevrolet pickup truck with a Florida tag for reckless driving, the GBI said. A second deputy joined the pursuit and the suspects began to fire their guns from the truck. Deputies returned fire and continued to chase them into Decatur County, where more deputies joined the pursuit, according to the agency.
Former Camden County teacher accused of sexual battery
Read full article: Former Camden County teacher accused of sexual batteryA 58-year-old man from Waverly, Georgia, was arrested and charged with four counts of sexual battery, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced Tuesday. GBI identified Steven Rayle as a former teacher in Camden County. The Kingsland Police Department began investigating Rayle after receiving a complaint of sexual misconduct against students at Camden Middle School, where he worked. The GBI, who was asked last week to assist in the investigation, said the incidents occurred in January. Tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at gbi.georgia.gov.submit-tips-onlinge or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
Florida man charged in theft of money from Georgia town
Read full article: Florida man charged in theft of money from Georgia townMONTICELLO, Ga. – A Florida man has been arrested for his part in an email scam that stole $46,000 from a Georgia town. Edward Porter Allen III is charged with computer theft for money taken from Monticello, about 60 miles southeast of Atlanta. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced the arrest Thursday, saying Allen had been extradited from Florida and was jailed in Jasper County, awaiting a judge to decide on bail. GBI Agent Steve Foster said Porter was a middleman in the email scam, with the money first being transferred from the city to his bank account in Sarasota, Florida, with most of the money then sent on to Turkey. The Jasper County sheriff asked the Georgia Cyber Crime Center to help investigate the theft in May 2019.
Woodbine teen charged with murder in Kingsland man’s killing
Read full article: Woodbine teen charged with murder in Kingsland man’s killingA Camden County teen was arrested Wednesday in the murder of a Kingsland man found shot inside his home earlier this month, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced Monday. Ashanti Hollerman, 17, of Woodbine, was taken into custody on charges of murder and aggravated assault in the Nov. 3 killing of Ernest Zachary Ruffell, marking the second arrest in the 34-year-old man’s death. Another suspect, 43-year-old Daniel Miller of Kingsland, is also charged with murder and aggravated assault. He was already in custody on firearms charges linked to the shooting at the time of his arrest. Ruffell was found shot inside his Forest Ridge Drive home about 12:20 a.m. Nov. 3, the Kingsland Police Department previously reported.
GBI exhumes body of man killed at Camden County church in 1985
Read full article: GBI exhumes body of man killed at Camden County church in 1985CAMDEN COUNTY, Ga. – Investigators with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on Wednesday exhumed the body of a man who was killed at a Camden County church. The GBI said it’s hoping to obtain DNA evidence in the investigation into the 1985 murders of Harold Swain and his wife, Thelma. It took investigators took two hours to exhume Harold Swain’s body. When asked about her thoughts on Wednesday’s development with the GBI exhuming Harold Swain’s body, she said: “I think it is a good thing, you know? Harold Swain’s siblings told News4Jax that they were not aware of Wednesday’s disinterment and will be following up with the GBI.
GBI: Brunswick officer kills man who fired several shots while running
Read full article: GBI: Brunswick officer kills man who fired several shots while runningBRUNSWICK, Ga. – A 33-year-old man was shot and killed late Saturday afternoon after he fired shots at officers while running from Brunswick police, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. State investigators said the incident began about 5 p.m. when a Brunswick officer patrolling downtown saw a vehicle speeding. The GBI said as one officer ran after the man, the suspect fired several shots in the direction of a second officer in the area of Newcastle and Bay streets. That officer, Lt. Donald Babbin, returned fire, hitting the man, later identified as Charles Eric Moses Jr, of Brunswick. It was, like, ‘Pow, pow, pow, pow,’” Neal said.
GBI: Kingsland officer fatally shoots man threatening woman with knife
Read full article: GBI: Kingsland officer fatally shoots man threatening woman with knifeKINGSLAND, Ga. – A 47-year-old man who was believed to be threatening a woman with a knife was shot and killed by a Kingsland police officer late Sunday night, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. According to the GBI, Kingsland officers responded to an apartment on Gross Road after receiving a 911 call from a woman screaming. Responding officers saw a man later identified as Gearil Leonard Williams through the window holding a knife, saying the woman appeared to be in distress. As officers entered into the apartment, the woman ran into a bedroom and Williams ran after her, barricading himself inside the room. News4Jax crime and safety expert Ken Jefferson said domestic violence calls are the most dangerous for responding officers and the officer did what he had to.
Waycross officer who shot at teens in traffic stop resigns
Read full article: Waycross officer who shot at teens in traffic stop resignsWAYCROSS, Ga. – Lt. Scott Rowell, who Waycross police identified as the officer who fired multiple shots at a car containing two teenagers one week ago, has resigned, the department confirmed Saturday. Waycross community leaders say a resignation from the officer who shot at a car with two teens inside is not enough. “Trying to come up behind him.”The supervisor recommended the officer try to run the car’s tag and then to attempt a traffic stop safely. Officer Shook and Lt. Scott Rowell were wearing body-worn cameras but, according to a GBI spokesperson, the two officers did not turn them on. Officer Shook remains on administrative leave pending the results of the GBI’s investigation.
Georgia trooper charged with murder in traffic stop shooting
Read full article: Georgia trooper charged with murder in traffic stop shootingSAVANNAH, Ga. A Georgia state trooper was fired and charged with murder Friday a week after he shot a 60-year-old man who tried to flee a rural traffic stop, authorities said. An attorney for Lewis family said the trooper initiated the traffic stop over a burned-out tail light and Lewis was shot almost immediately after the trooper forced his car into a ditch. #JusticeForJulian pic.twitter.com/XteN77JAgH Georgia NAACP (@Georgia_NAACP) August 12, 2020The Georgia Department of Public Safety said it fired Thompson after he was charged Friday. Yes, the man was arrested, but were done dying.Johnson said Lewis wife, Betty Lewis, learned of the troopers arrest as she left the funeral home after making final arrangements for her husbands graveside service Saturday. He said Lewis wife told him her husband didnt own a gun.
Officer who shot at teens in traffic stop did not activate body camera
Read full article: Officer who shot at teens in traffic stop did not activate body cameraWAYCROSS, Ga. – Police officers did not turn on their body cameras during a traffic stop that ended in an officer shooting at two teenagers in South Georgia, investigators say. RELATED: Man threatens action if Georgia officer isn’t arrested | Georgia pastor wants officer firedIn the calls, Officer Jesse Shook can be heard saying he was following a silver Acura he saw speeding near the local Walmart. “Trying to come up behind him.”The supervisor recommended the officer try to run the car’s tag and then to attempt a traffic stop safely. Officer Shook and Lt. Scott Rowell were wearing body-worn cameras, but according to a GBI spokesperson, the two officers did not turn them on. Officer Shook and Lt. Rowell remain on administrative leave pending the results of the GBI’s investigation.
Man threatens action from militia if Georgia officer isnt arrested
Read full article: Man threatens action from militia if Georgia officer isnt arrestedThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation of the incident Saturday morning in Waycross. We need at least 50,000 signatures from anybody in the state of Georgia to say justice must take place, Malone told the group of people. They got 10 days to make this arrest or all hell is going to break lose in Waycross Georgia. Five thousand Black militia is coming, and they will make this arrest, or we will make it for them, the unidentified man said. He said the people who are upset need to let the GBI finish its investigation into the officers actions.
Georgia pastor hosts community meeting to discuss traffic stop incident involving officer
Read full article: Georgia pastor hosts community meeting to discuss traffic stop incident involving officerFerrell Malone organized a community meeting at his Georgia church Tuesday to discuss an incident involving a Waycross officer, who police said fired multiple gunshots at a car while attempting a traffic stop. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation of the incident Saturday morning in Waycross near the Georgia-Florida state line. The agency said the officer who opened fire had come to assist another Waycross officer who began following the car after witnessing the driver commit a traffic violation. There was a gun in the car, but they didnt know the gun was in the car. What we want, number one, is for justice to be immediately served so that he is terminated and stripped of all credentialing of a police officer, Malone said.
NAACP calls for release of bodycam footage after officer fires shots at car with 2 teens inside
Read full article: NAACP calls for release of bodycam footage after officer fires shots at car with 2 teens insideWAYCROSS, Ga. – The president of the Waycross chapter of the NAACP is demanding the release of body camera footage of an attempted traffic stop, during which investigators said a Waycross police officer fired multiple shots at a car with two teenage boys inside. Larry Lockey, president of the Waycross chapter of the NAACP, said he’s worried if the incident goes unnoticed, there won’t be any justice. The agency said the officer who opened fire had come to assist another Waycross officer who began following the car after witnessing the driver commit a traffic violation. Waycross police also said both teenagers inside the car were arrested on charges of illegal possession of a firearm by a minor. “It’s hard to read that in the situation if the officer felt his life was in danger and started engaging in shots,” Reeves said.
Family says Waycross police officer fired shots at 5 children, including 9-year-old
Read full article: Family says Waycross police officer fired shots at 5 children, including 9-year-oldIn the meantime, the children involved and their father shared their side of what happened with News4Jax. The 9-year-old said at least seven shots were fired and one bullet whizzed by his head. The teens were both taken from the scene in handcuffs and were held at the police station for hours, the family said. They look like children, Goodman said. They know theyre not bad kids, Goodman said.
GBI searches home of man at center of overturned conviction in 1985 double murder
Read full article: GBI searches home of man at center of overturned conviction in 1985 double murderWAYNESVILLE, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation on Thursday executed a search warrant at the home of Erik Sparre and his mother, who was found dead last month. Dennis Perry was found guilty of those murders, but a judge overturned that conviction after the GBI reopened the case. Agents continue to work to determine what involvement Erik Sparre had in the Swain’s deaths. “That weekend, my brother was with me.”Despite DNA evidence, Erik Sparre has not been named a suspect in the Swain murders. The words that Head said he recalled were similar to those his family told police that Erik Sparre used in 1986.
Man who recorded Ahmaud Arbery death faces child molestation investigation
Read full article: Man who recorded Ahmaud Arbery death faces child molestation investigationCAMDEN COUNTY, Ga. William Roddie Bryan, one of the three men who face charges in connection with the shooting death of Ahmaud Arbery, is under investigation for alleged child molestation, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed to News4Jax on Wednesday. According to GBI, the Camden County Sheriffs Office requested assistance with the investigation on July 15. Travis McMichael and his father, Gregory, are accused in the shooting of Arbery in late February as he jogged through their Satilla Shores neighborhood. During witness testimony in the bond motion, the prosecutor revealed that Bryan is under investigation for sex crimes. I can confirm as of yesterday, the GBI has opened an additional parallel investigation into sex crimes that stemmed from this.
Woman whose DNA evidence was pivotal in overturned murder conviction found dead
Read full article: Woman whose DNA evidence was pivotal in overturned murder conviction found deadThe GBI later said it was investigating Gladys Sparre’s death. The deceased has been identified as Gladys Sparre, age 79. The Gladys Sparre death investigation remains active and ongoing.https://t.co/9QkZ4FvKgN pic.twitter.com/RCb4YFXv5X — GA Bureau of Investigation (@GBI_GA) July 20, 2020A friend who worshiped with Gladys Sparre described her as a gentle woman. Court documents show Erik Sparre was arrested a year after the murders but ultimately the state did not pursue charges against Erik Sparre. In February of this year, a GIP investigator obtained a voluntary hair DNA sample from Gladys Sparre.
GBI’s Kingsland office responds to death investigation in Brantley County
Read full article: GBI’s Kingsland office responds to death investigation in Brantley CountyWAYNESVILLE, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Kingsland office has responded to a death investigation in Waynesville at the request of the Brantley County Sheriff’s Office, the GBI said Sunday afternoon. The GBI said it is actively investigating the case. No further details were released.
Man convicted in 1985 Camden County church murders to get hearing for new trial
Read full article: Man convicted in 1985 Camden County church murders to get hearing for new trialCAMDEN COUNTY, Ga. – Attorneys for a man convicted of the 1985 murders of two people inside a Camden County church and the Brunswick District Attorney’s Office met with a judge on Wednesday to discuss his fate. It’s not safe for him in the prison, and he’s an innocent man,” Suzanne Baugh, Perry’s first cousin, told News4Jax. He 38 years old when he was arrested in 2000 in the 1985 murders of Deacon Harold Swain and his wife, Thelma. I-TEAM: Man convicted in 1985 Camden County church murders wants new trialOn Monday, June 29, the state filed papers saying it would not be prepared for a hearing on July 13. New DNA evidence in the 1985 murders excludes Perry, according to new court documents.
Georgia lawmaker calls for removal of embattled DA
Read full article: Georgia lawmaker calls for removal of embattled DAA Georgia lawmaker is calling for the removal of an embattled district attorney whose office has been accused of fumbling the investigation into the killing of Ahmaud Arbery. Brian Kemp, he expressed strong support for the removal of Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jackie Johnson. He and his son, Travis, were arrested last month after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation took over the case. The Glynn County community is experiencing a high degree of pain and grief as a result of Ahmaud Arberys tragic death in February 2020, Jones memo stated. Baugh said she wants to see changes within the DAs office now and backs the recommendation Jones made to Kemp.
Atlanta police shoot, kill suspect after struggle
Read full article: Atlanta police shoot, kill suspect after struggleATLANTA A man reported to police for sleeping in a car blocking the drive-thru lane of a fast food restaurant was shot and killed in a late night struggle with Atlanta officers after he failed a field sobriety test and resisted arrest, Georgia authorities said Saturday. Atlanta was among U.S. cities where large crowds of protesters took to the streets. A crowd of demonstrators gathered Saturday outside the Atlanta restaurant where Brooks was shot. Ultimately, when the officer used a Taser, it was ineffective for the suspect," Atlanta Deputy Police Chief Timothy Peek told reporters at the scene Friday night. Yes, investigations must be called for but so too should accountability.The officers involved in the shooting was not identified.
Ahmaud Arbery family lawyer: Feds looking into how case handled
Read full article: Ahmaud Arbery family lawyer: Feds looking into how case handledATLANTA A lawyer for the family of Ahmaud Arbery said Monday that a federal prosecutor told the slain man's mother federal officials are investigating potential misconduct by local officials who handled the case. Lawyer Lee Merritt said U.S. Attorney Bobby Christine, whose jurisdiction includes southern Georgia, met with him and Arbery's mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, on Thursday. They were taken into custody less than two days after the case was handed over to GBI. The elder McMichael worked as an investigator for Johnson, the Brunswick Circuit District Attorney, before retiring a year ago. Because of that, Johnson stepped away from the case, asking Carr to appoint Waycross Circuit District Attorney George Barnhill to replace her.
Official: Investigation of Arbery slaying finished soon
Read full article: Official: Investigation of Arbery slaying finished soonWilliam Roddie Bryan Jr., 50, was arrested Thursday on charges of felony murder and criminal attempt to commit false imprisonment. Bryan's neighbors, Gregory and Travis McMichael, were arrested on felony murder and aggravated assault charges after the video spread on social media, more than two months after the slaying. Along with the investigation into Arberys killing, Reynolds said he expects the GBI's investigation into the handling of the case by two local prosecutors to be completed soon and turned over to the attorney generals office. Gregory McMichael told police he suspected Arbery was a burglar and that Arbery attacked his son before being shot. Gough declined to discuss Bryan's actions the day of the shooting but said authorities overreached in charging him with felony murder.
GBI reports rise in child sexual exploitation cybertips since schools closed
Read full article: GBI reports rise in child sexual exploitation cybertips since schools closedThe Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force made 49 arrests in March and April, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. By comparison, in April 2019, the GBI received 587 cybertips from the NCMEC. Since March 16, when Georgia schools ended in-person classes, the GBI has arrested 15 people accused of possession, distribution or production of child sexual abuse images. Additional information related to internet safety education and tips to keep children safe online can be found at visit www.netsmartz.org. If you suspect or have information related to the abuse or exploitation of a child, call your local law enforcement agency or contact the NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST or www.missingkids.org.
Agents search home of 2 men charged with killing Ahmaud Arbery
Read full article: Agents search home of 2 men charged with killing Ahmaud ArberySATILLA SHORES, Ga. – Agents investigating the murder of Ahmaud Arbery searched the home of the two men charged with his killing on Tuesday night, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced Wednesday. The agency said investigators executed a search warrant at the Satilla Shores home of Gregory and Travis McMichael about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. More than two months passed before Gregory McMichael, 64, and Travis McMichael, 34, were jailed on charges of felony murder and aggravated assault. Gregory McMichael worked as an investigator for the local district attorney for more than two decades before he retired last year. Meanwhile, the prosecution now resides with the district attorney of Cobb County in metro Atlanta, the fourth DA to be assigned to the case.
Ware County jailer arrested, charged with battery
Read full article: Ware County jailer arrested, charged with batteryWARE COUNTY, Ga. A Ware County jailer was arrested on charges of battery and violation of oath, according to a news release from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Authorities said the GBI was asked by the Ware County Sheriffs Office to investigate allegations that Larry Ross, 23, assaulted an inmate at the Ware County jail. Ross was arrested Friday. According to the news release, Ross worked at the jail for less than two years. The investigation is ongoing.
Despite conviction, authorities reopen 1985 Woodbine murder case
Read full article: Despite conviction, authorities reopen 1985 Woodbine murder casePublished: May 13, 2020, 9:56 pm Updated: May 14, 2020, 6:51 amKINGSLAND, Ga. – The case of a couple shot to death at a Woodbine church has been reopened because of some possible new evidence, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Wednesday. In 2003, the case was closed after Dennis Perry was convicted of the murders. But the GBI will re-examine the investigation and evidence in the case to determine the significance of the possible new evidence, the Bureau said in a news release. The GBI and the Camden County Sheriff’s Office reopened the case Wednesday. Anyone with information pertinent to this investigation is asked to call authorities at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477).
Father, son arrested & charged with murder in shooting of Ahmaud Arbery
Read full article: Father, son arrested & charged with murder in shooting of Ahmaud ArberyFather, son arrested & charged with murder in shooting of Ahmaud ArberyPublished: May 7, 2020, 10:53 pmThe Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced the arrests the day after it began its own investigation at the request of an outside prosecutor..
Father, son arrested & charged with murder in shooting of Ahmaud Arbery
Read full article: Father, son arrested & charged with murder in shooting of Ahmaud ArberyBRUNSWICK, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested Gregory McMichael, 64, and his son, Travis McMichael, 34, in the deadly shooting of Ahmaud Arbery, according to a news release Thursday night. They were both charged with murder and aggravated assault and booked into the Glynn County jail. Gregory McMichael told police after the February shooting that he and his son chased after Arbery because they suspected him of being a burglar. Justice will be served.”Gregory McMichael told police he suspected the runner was the same man filmed by a security camera committing a break-in. He and his grown son, Travis McMichael, grabbed guns and began a pursuit in the truck.
2½ months after black jogger shot and killed, GBI joins investigation
Read full article: 2½ months after black jogger shot and killed, GBI joins investigationOther than Arbery, the men in the video are believed to be former Brunswick District Attorney investigator Greg McMichael and his son, Travis. The homicide was initially investigated by Glynn County police and the Brunswick District Attorney’s Office, but turned over to the Ware County District Attorney’s Office do to a conflict of interest due to the elder McMichael’s former employment in law enforcement. The case was then forwarded to the Hinesville District Attorney’s Office when Ware County claimed the same conflict. Arbery’s attorneys allege prosecutorial misconduct on behalf of the Glynn County Police Department and the Waycross District Attorneys, prompting a protest Wednesday outside the Brunswick District Attorney’s Office. On the morning of May 5, GCPD requested the GBI investigate the public release of video related to Arbery’s death.
UPDATE: 2 children, mother found safe after kidnapping in Georgia
Read full article: UPDATE: 2 children, mother found safe after kidnapping in GeorgiaPOWDER SPRINGS, Ga. - 4:00 P.M. UPDATE: - The two children and their mother have been found safe. Police are still searching for 22-year-old Armando Portilla. ----------------------------------------------------------------------Georgia police are searching for two children and their mother after they were kidnaped at knifepoint and believed to be in extreme danger, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said. They live in Powder Springs, which is northwest of Atlanta. They're believed to be in a white Kia Sorento -- with tag CAP 7259.
'Safe sleep' urged for infants after 13 sleep-related deaths in 1 month
Read full article: 'Safe sleep' urged for infants after 13 sleep-related deaths in 1 monthDECATUR, Ga. - Too many Georgia babies are dying because of unsafe sleeping conditions, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The Georgia Child Fatality Review hopes to change that by educating parents about the only safe way infants should sleep: alone on their back in a crib or bassinet. But those unsafe sleeping conditions are the No. In March of this year, investigators around Georgia responded to 13 cases of sleep-related deaths. Georgia authorities emphasized the ABCs of Safe Sleep:Alone: Babies should sleep alone in their own sleep space, close but separate from their caregiver.
GBI investigates death of toddler who family friend says was found in dryer
Read full article: GBI investigates death of toddler who family friend says was found in dryerBRANTLEY COUNTY, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the heat-related death of a 2-year-old girl. The toddler died Sunday in western Brantley County, near Waycross. According to the GBI, the medical examiner said the toddler died of hyperthermia. A close family friend told News4Jax that the toddler was found in a dryer. "It was just crazy," neighbor David Williams told News4Jax on Tuesday.
Kingsland officer who shot, killed man identified
Read full article: Kingsland officer who shot, killed man identifiedKINGSLAND, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation identified the officer it said fatally shot a man during a chase in Kingsland, announcing Friday he'd been placed on administrative leave. According to the GBI, the officer involved in the death of Anthony Green, 33, is Zechariah Presley. Green was killed Wednesday night when Green and an unidentified passenger stopped the vehicle they were in and ran, police said. "A brief altercation" ended with the officer firing multiple shots that killed Green. ORIGINAL STORY: Man, 33, shot, killed by Kingsland police, authorities sayThe GBI reviewed video from Presley's patrol car and video from his body camera.
Detective suspended over cellphone communications with suspect
Read full article: Detective suspended over cellphone communications with suspectWARE COUNTY, Fla. – A Ware County Sheriff's Office narcotics detective is on unpaid suspension pending the outcome of both a criminal and internal investigation into "inappropriate cellphone communications" he had with a woman who'd been arrested on drug charges. Deputies said the communications took place while Detective Jeff Nolan was with the Waycross Police Department two years ago. Sheriff Randy Royal became aware of them Oct. 30, then suspended Nolan and asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to investigate. Royal hopes to get a report from GBI next week.