OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF
BIBB COUNTY

DAVID J. DAVIS
CHIEF DEPUTY
LAW ENFORCEMENT

RUSSELL NELSON
CHIEF DEPUTY
CORRECTIONS AND COURT SERVICES

MEDIA UPDATE PAGE

LOCAL MEDIA RESOURCES FOR

Email: sdefoe@co.bibb.ga.us

PRESS RELEASES BY DATE

January 21, 2010

Uniform Crime Rate for 2009

Bibb County Sheriff Jerry Modena has announced the Uniform Crime Rate for 2009. The crime rate in unincorporated Bibb County was 3.2% lower in 2009 than in 2008. There were 2,465 total UCR crimes reported to the Sheriff's Office in 2009 as compared with 2,547 in 2008. The 2009 figure was lower than six of the previous seven years. Only 2007 had a lower total number of reported crimes.

Some notable points in comparing 2009 to 2008 include the fact that entering autos and auto thefts were down 3% and 10% respectively. Robberies were down by 40% [Commercial robberies down by 37%; Persons Robberies down by 44%] and all other thefts were down by 22%.

Shoplifting cases rose by 99 or 44%. This increase resulted from retail establishments taking proactive measures to capture those individuals who attempted to steal from area stores.

Additional retail development and the economic downturn helped to cause commercial burglaries to rise by 40% from 2008 to 2009.

More residences and the economy contributed to a 17% rise in residential burglaries. A factor contributing to the increase in all burglaries was the prevalence of instances in which flat screen HD TV's were stolen. There were 206 reports of flat screen TV's stolen in 2009 as compared to 117 reports in 2008.

Except for homicides, persons crimes were down in unincorporated Bibb County. Aggravated assaults were down 25% and rapes were down 27%. Individuals were arrested and charged in connection with all four homicides investigated by the sheriff's office in 2009.

Sheriff Modena praised the efforts of Bibb deputies in helping to attain the lower crime rate. He said, "In spite of personnel shortages, our deputies worked tirelessly to track crime hotspots and arrest those responsible for criminal offenses in Bibb County."

He further stated, "The continued growth of neighborhood watch groups and the email update program has been essential in identifying individuals engaged in criminal activity."

Sheriff Modena points out that investigators cleared 40% of property crimes and 68% of persons crimes. These clearance rates are much higher than the national averages of 15% for property crimes and 34% for persons crimes.

In summation, Sheriff Modena said, "This lower crime rate is the result of teamwork. Patrol officers and investigators who work the cases, jail officers who hold those charged in connection with those cases and county residents informing us of criminal activity form a formidable team which helps to make our community safer."

BSO	yr2008	yr2009	percent	incr/decr
*Arson*	12	14	17%	2
*Enter Autos*	387	377	-3%	-10
*Auto Theft*	222	199	-10%	-23
*Burglary-Comm*	121	169	40%	48
*Burglary-Home*	405	473	17%	68
*Shoplift*	226	325	44%	99
*Thefts only*	986	774	-22%	-212
*Rob-Comm*	30	19	-37%	-11
*Rob-Person*	36	20	-44%	-16
*Rob-Snatch*	2	2	0%	0
*Homicide*	1	4	300%	3
*Rape*	26	19	-27%	-7
*Agg* *Assault*	93	70	-25%	-23

*TOTAL UCR*	2,547	2,465	-3%	-82

January 10, 2010

Escapee Captured

Bibb Sheriff Deputies were flagged down by bystanders at the Dismas Charities after they saw Lazaurs lying under a park bench around midnight tonight. He was taken into custody. Lazaurs will receive an additional charge of Escape Before Conviction

January 9, 2010

Inmate Escaped Deputy’s Custody

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the escape of an inmate from a Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputy. This evening around 8:30p.m. Inmate Herman Hollis Lazaurs was taken to the medical center for medical treatment. Lazaurs ran away from deputy’s custody and headed towards Broadway.

Lazaurs is described as a 41 year old while male, 6 feet 3 inches height, 188 lbs, with gray hair. He was last seen wearing a navy blue sweat shirt, blue jeans, and black shoes. Lazaurs was being held for the charge Impersonating a Police Officer, False Information, Criminal Trespassing and Obstruction. All charges are misdemeanor charges.

Anyone with information leading to the arrest of this escapee is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

January 4, 2010

CrimeStopper Tip Leads to Arrest for Arson and Entering Auto

Bibb Sheriff Investigators arrested 23 year old Nicolas Wade Brown of Macon after an anonymous call was given to the Macon Regional Crimestoppers.

Bibb County Sheriff Deputies and Investigators were dispatched to the Westchester Drive area around 6:30a.m., on December 29, 2009. The homeowner, Mr. Marti, heard a loud noise and rushed to the front door to find one of his vehicles on fire. He immediately woke up the family and got them out of the house and then he and a neighbor attempted to put out the fire. The Macon-Bibb Fire Department was called to extinguish the fire. No one was injured during this incident.

The fire caused heavy damage to both of Marti’s vehicles as well as the garage door and roof of the garage. Some of Marti’s work items were found in the middle of the drive way. It is believed that Brown took the items from Marti’s vehicle and then set the vehicle on fire.

A vehicle across the street from Marti’s address was also entered that night and a rifle was taken from the vehicle.

Investigators’ Chris Harrell and Jamey Jones followed up on a tip which was given to the Macon Regional Crimestoppers. The tips led investigators to the arrest of Nicolas Brown at a Barrett Avenue address, on January 1, 2010 around 7.pm. and to the recovery of the rifle which was taken during the entering auto. Nicolas Wade Brown was arrested for the charges of Entering Auto and Arson. More charges are pending further investigation.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact Bibb County Investigator Jamey Jones at 478-621-5649 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

January 4, 2010

Child Molestation Suspect Arrested

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators arrested a Macon man late Sunday evening for the charge of Child Molestation. 57 year old Ernest Braswell III was caught in the act of sexually molesting his seven year old granddaughter when his wife walked in. Minutes after being caught in the act by his wife Braswell fled the scene in his vehicle. Deputies arrested Braswell later in the evening after he had returned to his residence. Braswell was then transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center where he is being held without bond.

This case is still under investigation.

December 25, 2009

Missing Person Found

Mr. Jessie Bennett age 21, from Macon, was found earlier this morning, around 9:30am. Reports indicate that Bennett walked into a local convenient store on Friday morning, December 25, 2009, and saw his picture on a poster. The “missing persons” poster was placed in the store by one of his family members. He immediately turned to the clerk and asked for the Sheriff’s Office to be called. Deputy Tania Greer arrived at the store and stood by until his family arrived to safely pick him up.

Bennett was not harmed during this incident and he safely returned home with his family.

December 24, 2009

Missing Person

The Bibb Sheriff’s Office is asking for help in a missing person’s case. Jessie Bennett, age 21, has been missing since noon Wednesday, December 23, 2009. Bennett was last seen at the Marathon gas station located at Hawkinsville Road and Walden Road. He did speak with his family over the phone yesterday around 2pm. The family stated that Bennett is suppose to take medication daily and has not done so for two days.

Jessie Bennett is described as a white male, clean shaven, blue eyes and short brown hair. He is 6 feet 0 inches tall, weighing approximately 175 lbs. It was reported that he was last seen wearing a brown jacket, blue jeans, and brown boots with white paint on the heel of one of the boots.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call the Bibb Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

December 22, 2009

Armed Robbery in south Bibb County

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the State Bank, located at 4315 Hartley Bridge Road, around 1:50 hours this afternoon.

A man entered the bank, handed a letter to the teller, demanding money and stating that he was armed. He then fled the bank on foot with an undisclosed amount of money. No one was harmed during this incident.

The suspect is described as black male, approximately 6 feet in height, weighing around 180 lbs. He was last seen wearing dark colored pants and a dark colored shirt. The suspect was wearing a scarf, brown “skull” cap, and brown coat. The suspect has a full beard and mustache and is possibly in his early 30’s.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards at 478-621-5641 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

December 4, 2009

Transition of Ownership Ceremony

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting a transition of ownership ceremony on Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 2pm. The ceremony will be held at the old Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab which is located at the corner of Second Street and Oglethorpe Street.

GBI Director, Vernon Keenan will be transferring ownership of the building and presenting the keys to Sheriff Jerry Modena. At this time, Sheriff Jerry Modena will be unveiling the building as the new Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab.

November 27, 2009

Fatality on Interstate 475

Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an early morning accident on I-475 south around mile marker 2 at around 7:19am this morning. 33 year old Sean Patrick Brown of Bronx, New York was driving a 2009 Jeep Laredo on I- 475. He and six other passengers were traveling from Columbia, Missouri. The vehicle, driven by Brown, ran off of the roadway, striking the guardrail, and then rolled several times until coming to a complete stop. One passenger was ejected from the vehicle and died on scene according to Coroner Leon Jones. The driver and five other passengers were transported to the hospital for treatment. According to Coroner Jones, two of passengers are in critical condition; four others are in stable condition.

Bibb Sheriff’s Fatality Investigators are still investigating this accident. Several lanes of the interstate were closed off while investigators were on scene. The lanes were reopened around 9:40am.

Anyone with information regarding this accident is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 1(478) 746-9441.

November 24, 2009

H.E.A.T. Grant Renewed

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office H.E.A.T (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) unit has been awarded again with a renewed grant from the state of Georgia in the amount of $92,010. The H.E.A.T. unit consist three Dodge Chargers which was purchased with the grant from the state in 2007. The grant also provides funds for three patrolmen to staff the unit. The H.E.A.T. program was developed by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

The H.E.A.T. unit made 348 DUI arrest in Bibb County in 2009 and wrote over 6000 citations. The unit has and continues to participate in various traffic safety enforcement events throughout the state. Participating in this program also makes available the resources of the M.G.T.E.N. (Middle Georgia Traffic Enforcement (Network). This group consists of about 100 officers from 13 law enforcement agencies in Middle Georgia area.

November 19, 2009

Identity Assistance

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is asking for assistance in identifying one of the suspects involved in a simple battery case on October 25, 2009 around 10:00pm. A black male wearing a white t shirt and black pants along with two other black males were outside of the lobby at the Quality Inn, located at 4630 Chambers Road. The clerk heard a noise coming from outside of the hotel and confronted the 3 suspects. The clerk and suspects engaged into a verbal confrontation which became physical when one of the suspects hit the clerk in the mouth and then fled the hotel on foot. The suspects headed towards the Chambers Cove Apartments which is also located on Chambers Cove Drive.
According to witnesses’ statements, one of the suspects stated that they lived at the Chambers Cove apartments.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Investigator Bill Strange at the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

November 17, 2009

3 Arrested for Marijuana Trafficking

Bibb County Drug Investigators conducted an investigation which led to the arrests of three men from the middle Georgia area for marijuana trafficking.

Approximately 80 pounds of marijuana was shipped through UPS from Phoenix, Arizona, to different addresses and names in the middle Georgia area. Bibb County Drug Investigators intercepted and seized the packages containing marijuana before the deliveries could be made. The approximate street value of the marijuana is from $100,000.00 to $150,000.00.

The following arrested in connection with this case are:

1) Thaddeus Lavette Bonds, age 28 from Macon, charged with Criminal Attempt to Traffick Marijuana and Probation Violation Superior Court.

2) Donnie Williams Brown, age 30 from Macon, charged with Criminal Attempt to Traffick Marijuana.

3) Howard Eric Sanders, age 37 from Warner Robins, charged with Marijuana Trafficking and he had a Hold in Houston County.

Anyone with information in regards to this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

November 9, 2009

Macon Man Arrested After Pursuit

Bibb County Sheriff Deputies arrested 32 year old Thomas Richardson of Macon, after a pursuit through downtown Macon and Bibb County. Bibb Sheriff’s Deputy Robbie Joiner spotted a blue Chevy Corsica traveling the wrong way on a one way street on Hardeman Avenue around 04:40a.m. Deputy Joiner attempted to stop the vehicle, it was later found to be driven by a Thomas Richardson. The vehicle picked up speed and continued to elude Sheriff’s Deputies as he traveled through the Walnut Street and Riverside Drive areas. The vehicle got onto Interstate 16, heading west and then onto Interstate 75 and headed south.

Deputies attempted to stop stick the vehicle at mile marker 158, Richardson was able to evade that attempt. Then Richardson continued south and got off at the Hartley Bridge Road exit. Richardson ran through several traffic lights and traveled down the wrong side of Hartley Bridge Road. Richardson got back onto the Interstate 75 and headed north. The pursuit lead Deputies back into the city of Macon, Richardson exited onto Eisenhower Parkway. He made a right turn onto Eisenhower Parkway and then turned onto Second Street after hitting a marked Sheriff Car. He headed towards downtown Macon as he continued down Second Street. Richardson then made a left turn onto Oglethorpe Street, next to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

Once on Oglethorpe Street, Richardson turned left into the Sheriff’s Office parking lot and finally coming to a stop after running into one of the Sheriff’s Office vans. Deputies got Richardson out of the vehicle and placed him under arrest.

It was later found that Richardson is a suspect in which a video captured Richardson committing burglary at the Pig in a Pit on Bass Road around 2:30a.m., this morning. Deputies are also looking into a possible second burglary where they found a cash register in the vehicle.

Richardson is currently in the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center for the charges of Parole Violation, Burglary, Obstruction, 2 counts of Interference with Govt. Property, Reckless Driving, Driving with a Suspended License, and Eluding Police.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

November 8, 2009

Missing Person Found

Michael Terrell Hopkins age 73, from Macon, was found in Newnan, Georgia around 6:15p.m., this evening by the Newnan Police Department.

Hopkins was reported missing around 2p.m. from St. Andrews Drive. The Newnan Police Department found Mr. Hopkins and notified the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office after a southeastern Be On the Look Out (B.O.L.O.) was issued.

Hopkins was found unharmed. His family members are on their way to Newnan, Georgia to reunite with him.

November 8, 2009

Missing Person

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help in a missing person’s case. Michael Terrell Hopkins, age 73, has been missing since shortly before 2.p.m., this afternoon. He is described as a white male, 6 feet 4 inches in height, 235 lbs, with gray hair which is combed to the back and balding in the front, he also has brown eyes. Hopkins was last seen wearing a white polo style shirt with long sleeves and navy blue pants. Hopkins suffers from dementia and he has diabetes.

Hopkins is reported to have left his residence, 1034 St. Andrew’s Road, in a 2004 silver Lincoln Town Car, with a Georgia tag displaying, 411YCD.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

November 8, 2009

Escapee Captured

Bibb Sheriff Deputies arrested 20 year old Deante Gholston around 6a.m. this morning after receiving a tip that he was in an apartment at the Latanya Village Apartments, located at 2565 Millerfield Road, in east Macon.

Gholston will receive an additional charge of escape before conviction.

November 7, 2009

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the escape of an inmate from the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center. Inmate Deante Gholston escaped from the Bibb L.E.C. around 7:30p.m. Saturday evening.

Gholston is described as a 20 year old black male, 6 feet in height, 162 lbs, with a slender build. He was last seen wearing his black and white striped, inmate jump suit or possibly a gray hooded sweatshirt. Gholston was being held for the charge of Armed Robbery.

Anyone with information leading to the arrest of this escapee is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

October 22, 2009

Armed Robbery in East Bibb County

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the Family Dollar, located at 3656 Jeffersonville Road, around 10:05 a.m. this morning.

Two masked gunmen entered the Family Dollar store, one brandished a handgun. The suspects demanded money from the cash register. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, both suspects fled the store on foot. No one was harmed during this incident.

One of the suspects is described as a black male, approximately 6 feet 1 to 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing possibly 120 lbs, wearing all black clothing. The second suspect is described as a black male, 6 feet 3 to 6 feet 6 inches tall, weighing approximately 150 lbs, wearing a black shirt and khaki pants.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

October 21, 2009

3 Arrested for Trafficking

Bibb County Drug Investigators conducted a traffic stop on Hawkinsville Road and made three arrests after seizing approximately 43 grams of crack cocaine, which has a street value of $5,375, and also $692.00 in currency.

The following were arrested and charged with Trafficking:

1) Delvin Enoch, 30 years old from Macon.

2) Jamarl Portis, 23 years old from Macon.

3) Eric Dickey, 31 years old from Warner Robins.

All three are being held in the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center without bond.

Anyone with any information in regards to this case is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office 1-478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers 1-877-68CRIME.

October 20, 2009

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in reference to 2 recent burglaries which occurred at the Capitol Cycle, located at 4950 Mercer University Drive. The individuals broke into Capitol Cycle and stole 2 motorcycles on October 9, 2009 around 2:45 am. The suspects broke into the store a second time on October 10, 2009 around 1:58am, stealing four more motorcycles. The following motorcycles were taken:

1) 2009, blue Yamaha TTR 110 EY , V.I.N. # JYACE25Y89A010951

2) 2008, orange KTM 50 SX JR, V.I.N. # VBKMRA2388M040172

3) 2007, blue Yamaha TTR 50, V.I.N. # LBPCA01Y770023899

4) 2009, green Kawasaki model KX65, #8, V.I.N. # JKBKXEAC398065609

5) 2006, green Kawasaki, model KX65, NDVIN modified frame. V.I.N. # none given.

6) 2008, Honda CDF 70, V.I.N. # JH2AE02099K101732.

Anyone with information leading to the arrests of the suspects involved with this burglary or any information where the motorcycles can be recovered is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68-CRIME.

October 1, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s Drug Investigators Arrest Three for Drug Trafficking

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Drug Investigators, S.W.A.T. Team, and with the assistance of the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant, yesterday afternoon at 548 Green Place which is located in the Fort Hill area of east Macon.

Investigators seized 3 assault rifles (1 AK-47 & 2 S.K.S.), 5 pistols, 3 ecstasy pills, ¾ to 1 pound of marijuana, and $2,187.00 in cash. The street value of the marijuana is approximately $2,400.

Three arrests made in connection with the search warrant were:

1) Reginald Emory, 27 years old of Macon, charged with Probation Violation Superior Court, Possession of Firearm during Felony by Convicted Felon, Possession of Firearm during a Commission of a Felony, Drugs Schedule 1 Possession with the Intent to distribute, and Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to distribute.

2) Renalda Lewis, 34 years old of Macon, charged with Probation Violation Superior Court, Simple Battery Family Violence, Possession of a Firearm during Felony by a Convicted Felon, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, Drugs Schedule 1 Possession with the Intent to distribute, and Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute.

3) Christopher Grant, 28 years old of Macon, charged with Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, Drugs Schedule 1 Possession to distribute, and Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute.

Bibb Sheriff Jerry Modena said this is an ongoing investigation to curtail illegal drugs in the city and county. The Sheriff is proud of the work that these investigators have done and continue to do.

October 1, 2009

Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Mourns Death of Deputy Alex French IV

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office mourns the loss of 31 year old Deputy Sheriff Alex French, IV. Deputy French was serving his second overseas tour of duty with the Georgia Army National Guard when he was killed in action by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. Deputy French had been on this deployment since May 2008.

Deputy French was a 7-year veteran of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, most recently assigned to the Booking area of the Corrections Division. His supervisors and co-workers describe him as being “dependable,” “eager,” and “enthusiastic” toward his job.

Bibb Sheriff Jerry Modena stated that his heart goes out to the family of Deputy French, as we all suffer the tremendous loss of such an honorable and noble young man.

September 28, 2009

Missing Person

The Bibb Sheriff’s Office is asking for help in a missing person’s case. James Allen Leaptrot, age 70, has been missing since 8am this morning. Leaptrot is reported to have Alzheimer’s and was last seen having breakfast at the Chevron gas station at the corner of Houston Road and Hartley Bridge Road.

Leaptrot is described as a white male, clean shaven, blue eyes and grayish brown hair. He is 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 230 lbs. It was reported that he is wearing a flannel shirt (unknown color), blue jeans, and brown shoes.

Leaptrot was last seen driving a light blue Jeep Command Cherokee with a silver toolbox on the back. The tag number for the vehicle is 20036QD. The vehicle has a dent on the driver’s side door and on the tail gate. It was reported that Leaptrot could possibly be in the Fort Valley area.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call the Bibb Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

September 24, 2009

West Bibb County Meet, Eat, & Greet

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting “Crime Day Out” on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at the West Bibb County Substation from 10 am to noon. The purpose of this free event is for a West Bibb County Meet, Greet, and Eat.

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office will have vehicles and equipment on display. The Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen and Supervisors that work in the West Bibb County area will be at this event sharing information about the Neighborhood Watch Programs in the area and meeting the public. There will be fresh hamburgers and hotdogs fresh off the grill and plenty of prizes to be given away! Again, this event is free of charge.

The West Bibb County Substation is located at 8097 Lower Thomaston Road. (At the North Lizella Road Intersection.) Hope to see you there!!!

September 22, 2009

Cocaine Trafficking Arrest

The Bibb County Narcotics and Vice Unit arrested 32 year old Timothy Dewayne Ross of Macon after a traffic stop on Broadway near Flamingo Avenue. Investigators seized approximately 41 grams of crack cocaine from the vehicle and $980.00 cash .The street value of the crack cocaine is around $5,125.

Ross is currently being held at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center for Cocaine Trafficking and Superior Court Probation Violation.

September 17, 2009

Bibb County NVU Arrests

The Bibb County Narcotics and Vice Unit made three arrests around 12:00p.m this afternoon, while serving a search warrant at 5723 Satterfield Drive in the Village Green area. Investigators seized approximately 13 ounces of packaged and unpackaged marijuana with a street value of approximately $2,600. Scales and baggies which were used to package the marijuana were seized. The investigators also seized a small amount of ecstasy, un-labeled prescription pills, $8,870 in cash, a bullet resistant vest and some .45 caliber bullets. No guns were found.

The suspects listed below were arrested and transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center:

1) Nathaniel Bernard Gordy - 21 years old (male) from Macon, charged with Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute and Possession of Schedule 1 drugs.

2) Derrian D. Gordy- 25 years old (male) from Macon, charged with Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute.

3) Xavier Hollander Perkins- 26 years old (female) from Macon, charged with Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute.

Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Wednesday September 16, 2009

Traffic Fatality in South Bibb County

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a fatal traffic accident which occurred around 6:40a.m., this morning. Nathan Beiswenger, age 26 of Bibb County, was jogging (west – towards Goodall Mill Road) on the 4200 block of Sardis Church Road. Witness statements said that when Beiswenger saw a vehicle heading (east- towards Houston Road),he moved over to the right lane, he apparently did not see or hear the 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche, driven by a 48 year old, Ricky Hulett of south Bibb County, which fatally hit Beiswenger from behind. There are no charges pending at this time.

This fatal accident is still under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Fatality Investigators. Beiswenger was pronounced dead, on scene, by Coroner Leon Jones at 7:20a.m.

Tuesday September 15, 2009

Identity Request..

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the above individual. On September 11, 2009 around 5:15pm, a Macon resident went to the Marathon gas station located at 6199 Thomaston Road. He accidentally left his wallet on top of the gas pumps.

He returned to the gas station and began to search for his wallet. He spoke with management and reviewed the video. The store video showed a dark colored Ford Explorer as the next vehicle to pull up to the same gas pump. The vehicle was driven by a black male wearing a white t-shirt and dark colored jeans. The suspect then went into the store, prepaid for his gas, and returned to the gas pumps. When the suspect began to pump his gas, he saw the wallet and picked it up. He appeared as if he was putting it back when he suddenly puts the wallet into his front pants pocket. The suspect gets into his vehicle and drives away.

Anyone with information in identifying this suspect is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 1-478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers 1-877-68CRIME.

Sunday September 13, 2009

1 Teen & 2 Juveniles Arrested

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to the Apple Valley subdivision, in east Bibb County, around 06:10a.m. on Sunday morning. It was reported that 17 year old Davares Jerrelle Evans of Macon and two 14 year old juveniles, both from Macon, stole a vehicle and began to enter autos in the Apple Valley subdivision.

41 year old, Dennis Terry, who is a Macon Police Officer, was inside of his residence and heard a disturbance outside. When Terry went outside he saw Evans pointing a handgun at him. Terry went back into his residence and retrieved his handgun. Once Terry went back out to the street, Evans and the two juveniles had already gotten back into the stolen vehicle and attempted to run him over as they fled the area. In fear for his life, Terry shot at the vehicle, striking the vehicle once.

The vehicle left the subdivision and was recovered on Riggins Mill Road, by officers who were in the area. One of the 14 year old juveniles was captured. Evans and the other juvenile fled the scene. Upon further investigation Evans and the other juvenile were apprehended by Bibb County Criminal Investigators. No one was injured during this incident.

Evans is being charged with Criminal Trespass, Theft by Taking Auto, and two counts of Aggravated Assault ( 1st count =Aggravated Assault pointing a pistol, 2^nd count = Aggravated Assault with motor vehicle).

The two juveniles were arrested and taken to the Youth Detention Center and both are charged with Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle and Theft by Taking Auto.

This case is still under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 1-478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Friday September 11, 2009

Update on West Bibb County Shooting

A second person has been arrested in connection with the shooting which occurred earlier this morning. Christopher Eugene Harris, 32 years of age from Lizella was arrested and charged with one count of Aggravated Assault.

According to witnesses statements Jonathan Russell Curtis and a Christopher Harris have been having heated arguments over a friend who was involved in a wreck the week prior. Early this morning, Curtis and Harris planned to meet somewhere near the intersection of Fulton Mill Road and Mt. Pleasant Church Road.

When Curtis arrived in the area of Fulton Mill Road in his black Mitsubishi 3000, Harris pulled behind him in a burgundy Ford Pick up truck. Harris allegedly shot at Curtis from his vehicle. Curtis attempted to flee and turned onto Michael Drive. A white Honda Accord driven by Neal Adkison, (* note this is the correct spelling of his name), pulled out of the Carr’s convenient store; Mark Thomas Strickland was the passenger. They got behind Harris and followed Curtis down Michael Drive. The three vehicles sped down Michael Drive until they reached its intersection with Rogers Road. The Mitsubishi slid to a stop, the burgundy truck sped away from the area and the white Honda pulled beside the Mitsubishi. According to investigators, Curtis shot at the white Honda Accord, striking Adkison and Strickland. Curtis left the scene.

A female arrived on scene and took Adkison to the Carr’s Store. She flagged down deputies when they arrived in the area. Strickland left the scene on foot and was later found at a relative’s house, near the location of the incident.

Adkison and Strickland were transported to a local hospital and are in stable condition from gunshot wounds.

Investigators received information which led to the arrest of 23 year old Jonathan Russell Curtis not long after the incident occurred. Curtis is currently being held at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center for two counts of Aggravated Assault.

Anyone with any information in reference to this case is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 1-478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Shooting Incident in West Bibb County

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to a call of shots fired in west Bibb County this morning, around 6:49a.m. Neal Adkins, 32 yrs old and Mark Thomas Strickland 26 years old, both from Macon, were transported to a local hospital after an early morning shooting at the corner of Michael Drive and Roger’s Road.

A short time later, Bibb Investigators arrested 23 year old Jonathan Russell Curtis, of Jones County, in connection with the shooting. Curtis is currently being held at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center and being charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault.

Adkins and Strickland are at the hospital receiving medical treatment for their gun shot wounds.

This investigation is still on going and more arrests are pending.

Anyone with information in reference to this case is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Saturday September 5, 2009

Bibb County Investigators with the assistance of Bibb County District Attorney’s Office, Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, Macon Police Department and the Macon Regional Crime Stoppers arrested 16 year old Javone Malik Taylor in connection with the murder and armed robbery of Jaymale Patel in the parking lot of the Race Way, located on Mercer University.

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen and investigators responded to a call of a personal armed robbery, shortly after midnight, where the victim, 26 year old Jaymale Patel of Sandersville was reported to be shot. This incident occurred in the parking lot of the Race Way, located at 5127 Mercer University Drive, in west Bibb County. Witnesses stated that Patel was being dropped off by a friend so that he could ride home with his brother. The business had just closed as he arrived.

When Patel exited the vehicle, a black male, approximately 5 feet 8 inches in height, wearing a black hat, white shirt with a black back pack across his shoulder, and khaki pants approached his location from one of the gas pumps, where the lights had been turned off due to the business closing.

The suspect brandished a silver gun and demanded that Patel give him money. Patel complied and gave up his wallet which was empty. The suspect demanded money again. The suspect then turned shooting twice, hitting Patel once in the upper arm and again in the head. The suspect ran towards Mercer University Drive.

Patel was transported to the hospital by ambulance and is reported to be in critical condition.

At 4:45am Friday morning, Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputies seized one vehicle and have four men that are being questioned in reference to the personal armed robbery of Jaymale Patel.

At 5:54am Friday morning, Jaymale Patel was pronounced dead while in surgery by Dr. Foret.

Investigators continued to work vigorously throughout the day questioning suspects and gathering information in reference this case. Information gathered led the investigators to the arrest of 16 year old Javone Malik Taylor of Macon. Taylor will be charged with Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, and Possession of a Firearm by an Under Aged Person, and Criminal Attempt to Commit Carjacking. Taylor is currently being held at the Youth Detention Center. He will have his first appearance hearing before a Superior Court Judge soon.

The four individuals who were brought in for questioning were cooperative and were released from custody. None of the four are being charged in connection with this crime.

As result of the continuing investigation, deputies recovered a handgun and other evidence associated in crime, in a field near the Race Way.

Sheriff Modena stated that he was very proud of the dedication, hard work, and the long hours that these deputies put forth during this investigation. The Sheriff again would like to ask the citizens of Macon and Bibb County to just be aware of your surroundings when out late at night.

Anyone that has any information in reference to the incident is urged to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers t 1-877-68-CRIME

Friday September 4, 2009

Personal Armed Robbery

* Update* - At 4:45 this morning, Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputies seized one vehicle and have 4 men that are being questioned in connection with the personal armed robbery of Jaymal Patel. More information will be given as the investigation progresses.

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen and investigators responded to a call of a personal armed robbery, shortly after midnight, where the victim, 26 year old Jaymal Patel of Milledgeville was reported to be shot. This incident occurred in the parking lot of the Race Way, located at 5127 Mercer University Drive, in west Bibb County. Witnesses stated that Patel was being dropped off by a friend so that he could ride home with his brother. Patel’s brother is a clerk at the Race Way. The business had just closed as he arrived.

Patel was transported to the hospital by ambulance and is reported to be in critical condition. The Indian community is putting up a $1000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the shooter.

This case is under investigation. Anyone with information in reference to the case is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Wednesday September 2, 2009

2 Arrested for Burglary

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrol Deputy’s Shane Howard and Beverly Moore arrested two men for burglarizing the Krystal’s restaurant, located at 6225 Zebulon Road.

The Sheriff’s Office received a call shortly after 2a.m. in the morning from a passing motorist that two black males were climbing in and out of the drive-thru window of the Krystal’s restaurant. When deputies arrived, the two suspects ran out of the back door of the restaurant and a short foot chase ensued. The suspects were apprehended in the Walgreen’s parking lot. An undisclosed amount of cash was recovered from the burglary and the suspects were arrested and taken to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

24 year old Antwon Jerrod Rideaux of Macon and 25 year old Antwan Terrell Walker of

Forsyth, were both arrested for Burglary.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Thursday August 27, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery which occurred late Wednesday night, around 11:23pm, at the “Circle K”, located at 4471 Ocmulgee Boulevard in east Bibb County.

The complainant stated that 2 light skinned black males entered the convenient store, both wearing gray hooded jackets, black pants, with gray bandanas covering their faces. The suspects demanded money. One of the suspects brandished a black handgun. The suspects took the cash drawer with an undisclosed amount of cash inside of it and grabbed some Newport cigarettes and Swisher Sweets cigars. The suspects ran out of the store and towards the rear of the building.

A possible suspect vehicle which was seen in the area during the time of the incident is a silver Ford Crown Victoria with several occupants.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office or the Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Saturday August 22, 2009

Robbery By Force

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to a robbery by force call at the G&B Amusements, located at 6230 Hawkinsville Road, just before 4pm. The suspect is described as a white male in his 30’s, 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches in height, approximately 140 lbs, with short dark brown hair. The suspect was wearing khaki shorts and a tan t-shirt with some type of design on the front. The suspect also talks with a rough loud sounding voice.

The suspect walked into G&B Amusements and asked the clerk if he would show him some pool sticks. When the clerk came from around the counter the suspect grabbed him from behind and stated that he had a knife, telling the clerk that he would cut him if he did not give him the money from the register. A knife was never displayed. The suspect forced the clerk behind the counter, the clerk attempted to open the register and fell to the ground. The clerk was hit in the head with an unknown object. The suspect grabbed an undisclosed amount of money from the register and ran out the front door.

The clerk was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition. This case is under investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Thursday August 20, 2009

Arrests made in recent XMart Case

The Bibb Sheriff’s Office made two arrests in connection with the alleged XMart Armed Robbery which occurred on Sunday night, August 16, 2009. Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators Ali Seckinger and Frank Thomas arrested 21 year old, Randy Joseph Clark, for False Report of a Crime and Fiduciary Theft and 19 year old Russell Alan Lewis Jr. for Theft by Taking (Felony).

Sergeant Brad Wolfe responded with other deputies to the Armed Robbery which allegedly occurred at the XMart, located at 2025 Emory Highway on Sunday night. Sergeant Wolfe was patrolling the area earlier in the night. He was using the Sheriff’s Office newest tool in fighting crime, the “Automatic License Plate Recognition System”. Sergeant Wolfe remembered seeing a white 90’s model Honda Accord pull out of the XMart parking lot onto Emory Highway Sunday night. While Sergeant Wolfe was traveling behind the Honda Accord, the Automatic License Plate Recognition System took a photograph of the vehicle and tag, recording the vehicle’s information into a database system.

Sergeant Wolfe spotted the same vehicle on Monday evening and conducted a traffic stop. Wolfe asked the driver, Russell Alan Lewis Jr., if he was on Emory Highway Sunday night. Lewis said, “No”.

Wolfe checked the Automatic License Plate Recognition System computer and saw that Lewis lied. The information was turned over to investigators and they followed up by going to Lewis’ apartment. When investigators knocked on Lewis’ door, his roommate Randy Joseph Clark answered. It was found that Clark is the clerk at the XMart who claimed that the store was robbed on Sunday evening.

After interviewing Clark and Lewis, investigators concluded that the store employee and his roommate planned the theft. Both subjects were arrested Wednesday evening.

Anyone with information in reference to this case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Thursday August 20, 2009

Bibb County Sheriff’s NVU New Conference Release

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit along with the assistance of the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Bibb County District Attorney’s Office, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Macon Police Department’s Narcotics Unit, Macon Probation Office and the South Eastern Regional Fugitive Task Force conducted a six week long investigation into a methamphetamine (ICE) distribution organization being ran by Jason Allan Robertson, 9765 Zora Place, Macon, Georgia. Jason Robertson was distributing methamphetamine in the Macon and Warner Robins/Houston County area.

As of this date the investigation has led to the arrest of eight individuals who face charges ranging from Trafficking Methamphetamine, Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine, Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Possess Methamphetamine. These individuals may also face additional charges ranging from Trafficking Methamphetamine and Firearm charges once the investigation is finished. Several other individuals have been identified as being involved with Jason Allan Robertson and some of these individuals could also face charges.

Investigators have seized approximately four ounces of methamphetamine, approximately six ounces of marijuana, prescription narcotics, approximately ten thousand dollars in cash, seven automobiles, a pontoon boat and two personal watercrafts and upwards of fifty firearms. Several of the firearms have already been determined to have been stolen in the middle Georgia area. One of the firearms seized in the investigation was an AK-47 variant assault rifle that has been altered to function as a fully automatic assault rifle. There were also several “homemade” noise suppressors for the firearms. Investigators recovered a stolen ATV and also seized a John Deere riding lawn mower, several cordless power tools, hand tools and landscaping tools of which some are believed to be stolen.

Individuals that have been arrested thus far in the investigation are as follows:

1) Jason Allan Robertson W/M

9765 Zora Place

Macon, Georgia

DOB: 08-14-1977

2) Michael Anthony Boselie W/M

104 Shamrock Court

Bonaire, Georgia

DOB: 03-21-1977

3) Anthony Eugene Britt W/M

2554 Allen Road

Macon, Georgia

DOB: 12-30-1

4) Billy Michael Smith W/M

1561 Engle Drive

Macon, Georgia

DOB: 10-08-1979

5) Ricky James Yasutake W/M

1800 Wesleyan Drive, Apartment 115

Macon, Georgia

DOB: 01-05-1963

6) Joshua Duane Oglesby W/M (Stopped in Monroe County, bond is set at $1,000,000...)

803 Arrowhead Trail (56.8 grams of methamphetamine $ 7400. street value)

Warner Robins, Georgia

DOB: 03-08-1979

7) Charles William Farrow II W/M

100 Hawthorne Road

Warner Robins, Georgia

DOB: 10-09-1983

8) Cassandra Searan Britt W/F

2554 Allen Road

Macon, Georgia

Wednesday August 19, 2009

Media Conference Invitation

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office will be holding a media conference at 2pm on Thursday, August 20, 2009. The media conference will be held at the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, 668 Oglethorpe Street, on the second floor, in the conference room. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit headed up a multi-jurisdictional operation where several arrests have been made and more arrests pending. The Narcotics and Vice Unit seized a large amount of weapons, currency, several vehicles, various drugs, and stolen property.

A portion of these items are going to be on display. The Sheriff and various members of the Narcotics and Vice Unit will be in attendance to discuss the operation.

Sunday August 16, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the XMart, located at 2025 Emory Highway, shortly before midnight on Sunday night August 16, 2009. The suspect is a black male, approximately 5 feet to 5 feet 2 inches tall with a medium build. The suspect was wearing a black hood, with only the eye areas cut out, a white tank top shirt, black pants, and dirty white socks over his arms and hands.

The suspect entered the store, told the clerk that he had a gun. The suspect made the clerk go into a front room closed the door and then he took an undisclosed amount of cash from the cash register. The suspect fled the store on foot. No one was injured during the incident.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

PERSONAL ARMED ROBBERY

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen and Investigators responded to a report of a personal armed robbery which occurred at the corner of Columbus Road and Brookhaven Road around 3:19 PM Sunday afternoon August 16.

Darien Wiggins, 17 years old from Macon, was walking up Columbus Road, when two men approached him, both brandishing handguns and demanding money. Mr. Wiggin’s pulled out his wallet. The suspects snatched the wallet away from Mr. Wiggins and ran down Brookhaven Road, headed towards Eisenhower Parkway. Mr. Wiggins was not injured during the robbery.

One of the suspects was described as a black male in his early 20’s, medium complexion, with dreadlocks and a goatee. He was approximately 6 feet tall and he had a medium build. The suspect was wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans.

The second suspect was described as a black male in his early 20’s, dark complexion, short haircut and a full beard. He was approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall with a medium build. The suspect was also wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans.

Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to contact Bibb Sheriff’s Office at (478) 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-(877)-68CRIME.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

3 Arrested for conspiracy to commit armed robbery

The Bibb Sheriff’s Office received a call of an armed robbery in progress at 9:10pm Tuesday evening, at the Arby’s located at 3100 Riverside Drive.

Deputy Johnny Rowe arrived on scene at 9:13 p.m. and found two customers fighting with the suspect. Investigator Ali Seckinger was off duty, responded to the Arby’s, arriving just after Deputy Rowe and assisted in the arrest of 21 year old Zantory Williams of Macon.

Two Tennessee men were passing through Macon when they decided to stop at the Arby’s for supper. Williams walked into the Arby’s brandishing a small handgun in an attempt to rob the restaurant. The two Tennessee men tried to disarm Williams and began to fight with him until Deputy Rowe and Investigator Seckinger arrived.

Others were arrested in connection with this crime.19 year old Kenneth Lamar Holmes and 23 year old Twanndolynne Shantavias Towns, both from Macon. Holmes and Towns were charged with conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

Williams refused medical treatment for minor injuries and was transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center and charged with conspiracy to commit armed robbery and 2 counts of aggravated assault.

One of the two Tennessee men received minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment.

This case remains under investigation.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Drowning at the Ocmulgee River

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen, along with Macon-Bibb Fire Department Rescue Divers, Rangers from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and Agents with the United States Fish and Wildlife, responded to a possible drowning at about 9:00 p.m. Sunday evening.

Witnesses’ stated that 47 year old Gary Lee Hutto of Macon was attending a social gathering in the Bond Swamp area of the Ocmulgee River when he walked across a sand bar stepping into a deep part of the water and went under.

Around 10:00 a.m. this morning the Rangers with Department of Natural Resources located Hutto’s body approximately 30 feet from the sand bar in about 15 to 18 feet of water while dragging the river.

August 9, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the XMart, located at 2025 Emory Highway, shortly before 9 a.m. this morning. The suspect is a black male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a slender build. The suspect was wearing a black hooded sweat shirt, a black bandana covering his face, black dickie pants, black gloves, and white shoes.

The suspect entered the store, brandished a black handgun and then demanded money from the cash register. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect made the clerk lie down on the floor. The suspect fled the store on foot. No one was injured during the incident.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Thursday August 6, 2009

Armed Robbery in West Bibb County

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to an Armed Robbery call where one person was shot in the leg at the West Club Apartments, located at 159 Steven’s Drive, Building #15, at Apartment 103, in West Bibb County, shortly before midnight.

According to witnesses, 2 of the victims, 25 year old, Larry Dixon and 24 years old, Iockeim Freeman, both from Macon, were standing outside of apartment 103.

3 black males approached their location, described as being approximately 5feet 7 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall and possibly in their 20’s. The suspects were wearing all black clothing and had black ski mask covering their faces as they approached Dixon and Freeman. The 3 black male suspects’ brandished 2 rifles and 1 small handgun telling Dixon and Freeman get on the ground as the suspects demanded money. The suspects took an undisclosed amount of money from the two victims.

As the Dixon and Freeman were still lying on the ground the suspects began to kick in the door at apartment 103. As they tried to make entry a third victim, 46 year old Antonio Black of Macon was standing inside of the doorway. Black tried to flee when one of the masked gunmen shot him in his lower right leg.

The 3 suspects fled the scene on foot and ran towards the adjacent community, Lucille Driskell Dr.

Mr. Black was transported to the hospital for non life threatening injuries to the leg and the other two victims were checked out by paramedics.

This case is under investigation. If you have any information in reference to this case we urge you to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at (478)746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1(877)68CRIME.

Thursday August 6, 2009

Shooting incident in West Bibb County

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to a report of shots fired in West Bibb County this morning around 10:26a.m... 21 year old Matthew Jones of Macon was visiting his girlfriend, 20 year old, Lachina Brown at 128 Bobby Jones Boulevard when this incident occurred.

According to witnesses the suspect is described as a black male approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, slender build, wearing a red “skull” cap, red bandana covering his face, a long dingy black shirt and blue jeans. The suspect started to knock loudly on the victim’s front door and windows of the residence. The suspect brandished a chrome handgun, yelling that he knew the victims were in the house and then began to shoot towards this side of the house. The suspect fled the scene on foot. No injuries reported.

This case is currently under investigation. Anyone with information in reference to this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or the Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

July 27, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the Family Dollar, located at 3656 Jeffersonville Road, around 8:30pm this evening.

Two masked gunmen entered the Family Dollar store one brandished a nickel plated handgun, the other, a long rifle. The suspects demanded money from the cash register. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, both suspects fled the store on foot. No one was harmed during this incident.

One of the suspects is described as a black male, 5 feet 6 inches tall, wearing black t-shirt, khaki pants and wearing gloves with the fingers cut out. The second suspect is described as a black male, 5 feet 9 inches tall, wearing a tan or gray sleeveless t-shirt, with black pants and black shoes.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

July 27, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrol Deputies responded to a request for assistance from the Peach County Sheriff’s Office, Saturday morning, around 3:30am. The Peach County Sheriff’s Office reported that they were in pursuit of black Toyota Tundra on I- 75 as they entered into Bibb County. The vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and without lights on. The vehicle turned onto I-475 and continued north. Bibb Deputies joined the pursuit with Peach County Deputies.

Bibb Sheriff’s Deputy Johnny Rowe, while responding to the pursuit, left the roadway and collided with the guard rail on I-475, just north of I-75. Deputy Rowe was transported to the hospital for treatment and observation of non life threatening injuries.

The Georgia State Patrol ended the pursuit on I-475 near the Thomaston Road exit. The suspect fled on foot and was immediately captured. 45 year old, Tracy Lamar Billingslea of Warner Robins was arrested and currently being held in the Peach County jail. Upon completion of the investigation charges will be pending in Bibb County.

Monday July 27, 2009

Bibb Death Investigation

Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Woodfield Drive at 9:35 am this morning in reference to the accidental shooting death of 85 year old E.J. Fried, of Macon. Mr. Fried was towing a jeep that had a loaded shotgun mounted on its dash. Fried pulled over and attempted to remove the shotgun. Investigators believe that the trigger caught the mount and suddenly discharged, striking Mr. Fried in the chest. According to witnesses’ statements, it appears to be accidental. This case still remains under investigation.

Friday, July 24, 2009

2 Arrests made in connection with the Robert Saxby Murder

Two additional arrests have been made in connection with the Robert Saxby murder, which occurred at the Polly’s Mirage located at 3260 Jeffersonville Road in East Bibb County back in February.

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators arrested 22 year old, Joe Celery Polk III on Wednesday evening and a 29 year old, Orin Threatt on Thursday morning; both from Macon.

Saxby died in February after being assaulted in the parking lot of Polly’s Mirage, located on Jeffersonville Road. Witnesses stated that several suspects hit and kicked Saxby and he collapsed in an adjacent parking lot shortly after.

In June, the medical examiner ruled 31 year old, Robert Saxby’s death, a homicide with the official cause of death resulting from a cardio-respiratory complication from a cerebral concussion. Seven warrants were issued for Felony Murder.

With the assistance of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, six arrests were made. The seventh suspect turned himself over to a Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolman.

The investigation led the Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators, with the assistance of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, to the recent arrests of Joe Celery Polk III and Orin Threatt in connection with this murder. Polk is charged with Felony Murder, and Threatt is being held for Felony Murder and Probation Violation Superior Court. Both subjects are being held at the Bibb Law Enforcement Center without bond.

The nine suspects listed below have been arrested for Felony Murder in reference to this case:

1.) Balkcom, Gilbert, 30 year old

2.) Balkcom, William Andrew, 29 year old

3.) Balkcom, India Octavia, 31 year old

4.) Adams, Maurice Jacquez, 24 year old

5.) Adams, Ralphel Ramone, 32 year old

6.) Iverson, Felesha Denise, 28 year old

7.) Cole, Johnathan Cole, 27 year old

8.) Polk, Celery Joe, 22 year old

9.) Threatt, Orin, 29 year old

Any information regarding this case please call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

Thursday July 23, 2009

Arrest Made in Armed Robbery Case

Wednesday morning, Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigator Eli Taylor took into custody 27 year old, William Jeffery Lowder Jr., of Macon, and charged him with Armed Robbery in connection with last Saturday's (July 18) holdup at the Xmart adult book at 2025 Emory Highway.

This crime is currently under investigation and additional arrests are possible.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

July 19, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s Office N.V.U. Arrest

Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit acted on information received in reference to marijuana being grown and cultivated on the property of 3352 Riggins Mill Road. Deputies discovered 110 marijuana plants, which could bring in a total street value of $250,000 to $300,000. The marijuana was planted in different areas throughout the property. 54 year old, Leon Burroughs, who lives at that address, was arrested on scene for Manufacturing Marijuana. This case is still under investigation and further arrests are pending.

Leon Burroughs is currently being held at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center, without bond, for the charges of Manufacturing Marijuana and Probation Violation Superior Court.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Drowning at Lake Tobosofkee

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen, along with Lake Tobosofkee Rangers, and officers from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources responded to a possible drowning at about 7:45 p.m. Sunday evening. A witness stated that 49 year old, James Tyson of Warner Robins went with a friend to a private boat house on Lake Tobosofkee to test a scuba diving breathing apparatus. Tyson was last seen diving underwater around 6:15 p.m.

A friend of Tyson’s stood by at the boat dock, waiting for Tyson to resurface. The friend became concerned after not seeing any signs of Tyson and called 911. Tobosofkee Rangers and the officers from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources began to search the area where Tyson entered the lake. At 9:40 p.m. Tyson’s body was found in approximately 15 feet of water, around 40 feet from the boat house.

July 18, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the XMart, located at 2025 Emory Highway, shortly after 9 a.m. this morning. The suspect is a black male, approximately 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 6 inches tall, wearing a black baseball cap, panty hose over his head, sunglasses, and wearing a camouflage bandana over his mouth, he was also wearing a black shirt and black jeans.

The suspect entered the store, brandished a black handgun and then demanded money from the cash register. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect fled the store on foot. He was last seen running on Emory Highway headed into the City of Macon. No one was injured during the incident.

This crime is under investigation. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crime stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

July 17, 2009

7 Suspects Arrested for Illegal Door to Door Sales Scam

On the evening of July 8^th, Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies arrested seven suspects on charges of Soliciting without a License. The suspects had been soliciting magazine subscriptions in the Sandusky Circle and Rogers Road areas that evening. A local resident searched for and found two of the suspects then demanded his check back after writing it for subscriptions then discovering shortly afterward, less than flattering reports on the company they claimed to represent (Atlantic Circulation). The two suspects fled with the check. Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies and members of the Middle Georgia REACT combined efforts later in the evening to find seven of the “salespersons” in a dark colored Ford Expedition bearing a local used car drive out tag.

In many of the reports the Bibb Sheriff’s Office receives on this group, their strategy is usually to claim that they are neighbors of the resident and selling subscriptions for college. At least one of the seven arrestees in this case has outstanding warrants from Florida for an alleged distraction type theft that took place in the home of a potential customer. The advice of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office as always is not to interact with or encourage illegal door to door salespersons. Most products sold by these groups can be purchased locally or on-line at comparable prices. Under no circumstances should you allow solicitors into your home. A Bibb County ordinance requires that door to door solicitors obtain a permit from the county and that the permit is visible during the sales practices.

The attachment contains mug shots of the seven arrested. Three of the suspects were still in the Bibb County Jail as of 1:30 this afternoon. The bond amounts were $650 each.

ARRESTED:

Joshua Smith - Land o’ Lakes, Fla

John Richardson -(driver) Macon

Todd Rayno -Land o’ Lakes, Fla

Genevieve Gibbs -Gettysburg, Pa

Amber Kincaind – Palm Bay, Fla

Courtney Goodman-Meloy- Port St., Fla.

Jesus Meza – San Luis, Az.

Lt. George Meadows, the supervisor of the Crime Prevention Unit, assisted in this investigation. He suggests readers to go to this website for more information on this scam.

http://ripoffreport.com/reports/0/043/ripoff0043496.htm

July 17, 2009

East Macon Shooting Investigation

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to shooting incident in East Bibb County early this morning. Patrolmen spoke with 17 year old, Shelby Kennedy and 21 year old, Phillip Lowe, both from Macon. Both stated that as they were walking down Hitchcock Road, 2 black males occupying a black, boxed styled Chevrolet Caprice drove by and began to shoot at them. Phillip Lowe was struck in the left hand and was transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia by paramedics where he received medical treatment. Shelby Kennedy was not injured.

This case remains under investigation. Any information regarding this case please call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

July 17, 2009

6 Juveniles Arrested After Weekend Crime Spree

Bibb County Sheriff Investigators, working in coalition with the Macon-Bibb Fire Department, charged 6 juveniles for several crimes which occurred over the 4^th of July weekend. The juveniles’ ages range from 13 to 16 years old.

On Saturday, July 4^th, 2009, an old bath house which was located in a wooded area off of Camp Fire Road, in Lake Wildwood, was set on fire and burnt to the ground. Investigators from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Arson Investigators from the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department responded to incident and determined that the fire was started intentionally.

In the early morning hours of Sunday, July 5^th, 2009, the soccer field’s concession building at Stratford Academy was burglarized. The suspects busted out a window and entered the building, stealing candy and drinks. Afterwards, the suspects spray painted graffiti on the baseball field’s dugout.

Later that Sunday, the Lake Wildwood Maintenance Shop was burglarized. Deputies responded and it was determined that the suspects kicked in the door and stole a lawn mower and a golf cart. Both the golf cart and the lawn mower were recovered in a nearby wooded area. The golf cart was damaged during this incident.

The investigation led to the arrest of 6 juveniles who were attending a sleep over at a residence in Lake Wildwood. All 6 juveniles were charged with (2) counts of Burglary, (1) count of Arson, (1) count of Criminal Damage to Property in the 2^nd Degree, and (1) count of Criminal Trespass.

Thursday July 16, 2009

Bibb Sheriff NVU Investigation

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit found the remnants of a methamphetamine lab in a wooded area at the dead end of Crawford Road on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 around 11a.m. The Bibb Sheriff’s Office N.V.U. Investigators received a tip that a possible methamphetamine lab was there.

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office N.V.U. Investigators found chemicals which were used to make methamphetamine. The lab was not in operation and no drugs were found. The Bibb County Sheriff N.V.U. Investigators immediately organized the clean up and removal of all hazardous materials.

The case remains under investigation.

Monday July 6, 2009

Robbery by Intimidation

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a robbery by intimidation just after 3P.M. this afternoon. A white male suspect entered the Atlantic Southern Bank located at 8340 Eisenhower Parkway in Lizella and demanded cash from the bank teller, then fled the scene on foot. The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet 0 inches to 6 feet 4 inches tall, wearing a blue polo-style shirt with red horizontal stripes, blue jeans and a khaki colored baseball cap. The suspect has a slender build and is approximately 20 to 25 years old with reddish blonde hair.

This crime remains under investigation. Anyone with information on the case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

Tuesday June 30, 2009

Traffic Accident with Injuries

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to a reported traffic accident with injuries at approximately 1:20 this afternoon. James Boothe, age 29, of Byron was traveling west on U.S. 80 near Fulton Mill Road. Witnesses stated that Boothe attempted to pass traffic on the right shoulder of the roadway when he lost control of his vehicle. Boothe’s vehicle came back onto the roadway and crossed over into the east bound lanes, hitting a stake bed body truck, pulling a trailer with a farm tractor. The truck was driven by 56 year old Sammie Poole of Macon and he had a passenger, 56 year old Michael Lewis of Macon.

Both the drivers and the passenger were transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia.

The accident is still under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

Tuesday June 23, 2009

Second arrest made in connection to the August 2008 Homicide

A second arrest was made in connection to the murder of a Macon waitress who was found burning on the side of an east Macon road in August 2008. Bibb Sheriff Investigators found evidence linking 26-year old Tommy Lee Zellner, of Fairburn, to the August 2008 murder of Melissa Rushing. Evidence suggests that Zellner helped 37-year old Gregory Miller moved the body of Melissa Rushing and also helped concealed her death.

On August 7, 2008 a witnesses found what they believed to be a body burning along Bondsview Road and called 911. Authorities arrived on scene to find that an unknown female had her hands, feet, and neck bound by a cord and a plastic bag was placed over her head. The body was then set on fire. After a further investigation, it was discovered to be the body of a Macon resident, 39-year old Melissa Rushing.

Zellner was arrested on Monday in the Atlanta area and transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center where he is being charged with concealing a death.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Burglary Suspects Apprehended

Two Burglary suspects were arrested Monday evening after Bibb Deputies gave chase through a swampy area in South Bibb County.

Ronald Keith Pitts, age 21 and William Clark, age 25, both from Macon were charged with Burglary and Obstruction, Monday night, after being chased several hours in a swampy area near the Bibb/Crawford County Line. The incident started around 4:45p.m., Monday afternoon. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a suspicious vehicle parked on Green Hill Drive, in south Bibb County. While Deputies were in the Green Hill Drive area a homeowner called the Sheriff’s Office stating that his house had just been burglarized in 5000 block of Sardis Church Road. The homeowner stated that his home was entered and that he found his wooden cash box lying in the backyard near a fence. He also stated that his pistol had been stolen.

Several homeowners called the Sheriff’s Office stating that they had seen two black males running through their back yards in that same area. A witness stopped and told Deputies that he almost ran into two black males while driving down Sardis Church Road, near Green Hill Drive.

Bibb Investigators were in the area after the original Burglary call was given out. Investigator Jack Cleveland checked a wooded area near Fulton Mill Rd and Lower Hartley Bridge Road. Investigator Cleveland stated that he spotted the two suspects while walking down a path and then gave chase. The suspects ran into a swampy area near the Bibb/ Crawford County Line.After several hours the suspects were apprehended near Purple Road just inside of Crawford County. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Georgia State Patrol’ Helicopter Unit and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the search and apprehension of both burglary suspects.

The case is still under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators are still determining if the suspects were also involved in other burglaries.

If you have any information regarding this case, call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

Monday June 15, 2009

Inmate injured in Altercation

Investigators from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office are currently investigating an altercation, which occurred Saturday afternoon in a medium security section of the Bibb County Jail. According to witnesses, inmate Christopher Richardson was harassing other inmates when inmate Steve Howard intervened. Before deputies arrived, a scuffle had broken out between Richardson and Howard. Richardson was reportedly struck in the eye by Howard. Richardson was taken to the Medical Center of Central Georgia for treatment and was released back to the jail Sunday. He is not expected to regain sight in the injured eye.

Christopher Richardson, 18, is being held in the Bibb County Jail under charges of Burglary, Criminal Attempt to Commit Burglary, and a Hold for Houston County.

Steve Howard, 22, is being held in the Bibb County Jail under charges of Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Trespass, Entering an Auto, Theft, and Probation Violation.

This incident is currently under investigation and charges are pending.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Seven Arrest made in Homicide Case

Seven arrest warrants were issued on Friday for Felony Murder in the case of 31-year-old, Robert Saxby, a Macon resident. The medical examiner ruled the death, a homicide with the official cause of death resulting from a cardio-respiratory complication from a cerebral concussion.

The suspects listed below have been arrested for Felony Murder:

Gilbert Balkcom Jr. 30 -year- old

William Andrew Balkcom 29- year- old

India Octavia Balkcom 31- year- old

Maurice Jacquez Adams 24 -year- old

Ralphel Ramone Adams 32- year- old

Felesha Denise Iverson 28 -year- old

Johnathan Johntaveou Cole 27- year- old

With the assistance of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force six arrests were made on Friday evening. The seventh suspect, Gilbert Balkcom, turned himself in Monday morning, to a Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolman. Any information regarding this case please call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

Saturday June 13, 2009

Traffic Fatality

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred shortly after 3 a.m. this morning. Malcolm Marchman, age 42 of Bibb County, was headed towards Macon in his 2000 Audi when he failed to negotiate the curve in 5000 block of Rivoli Drive. The vehicle left the roadway, traveling down the embankment and struck a tree. No other vehicles were involved in this accident and Marchman was the only occupant in this vehicle. This fatal accident is still under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Fatality Investigators. Marchman was pronounced dead, on scene, by Coroner Leon Jones at 3:34 a.m.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Homicide Arrest Warrants Issued

Seven arrest warrants were issued, today for Felony Murder in the case of 31-year-old, Robert Saxby, a Macon resident. The medical examiner ruled the death, a homicide with the official cause of death resulting from a cardio-respiratory complication from a cerebral concussion.

The suspects listed below have warrants issued for their arrest:

Gilbert Balkcom Jr. 30 -year- old

William Andrew Balkcom 29- year- old

India Octavia Balkcom 31- year- old

Maurice Jacquez Adams 24 -year- old

Ralphel Ramone Adams 32- year- old

Felesha Denise Iverson 28 -year- old

Johnathan Johntaveou Cole 27- year- old

Bibb Sheriff Investigators with the assistance of Middle Georgia Fugitive Task Force and Crime Stoppers are seeking the suspects in the recent murder. Sheriff Modena said that he was proud of the long hours and dedication that his investigators have put forth in this case. Any information regarding this case please call the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

Friday, June 05, 2009

Suspect arrested in reference August 2008 Homicide

An arrest was made Thursday evening in reference to the murder of a Macon waitress who was found burning on the side of an east Macon road in August 2008.

37-year old Gregory Dewayne Miller, of Macon, was arrested for Felony Murder of Melissa Rushing. On August 7, 2008 a witness found what they believed to be a body burning along Bondsview Road and called 911. Authorities arrived on scene to find that an unknown female had her hands, feet, and neck bound by a cord and a plastic bag was placed over her head. The body was then set on fire. After a further investigation, it was discovered to be the body of a Macon resident, 39-year old Melissa Rushing.

The U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force arrested Miller at the Raintree Apartment complex off of Graham Road Thursday, after an arrest warrant was issued. Miller is being held at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center without bond. A commitment hearing is set for June 19, 2009.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Bibb County Sheriff’s NVU Arrest

After receiving complaints of suspicious activity, investigators with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit made contact with Virgil Marlon Lawrence, 19 of Macon on Wednesday evening, June 3^rd around 9 PM while he was sitting in a car, in a parking lot at the corner of Northside Drive and Wesleyan Drive.

Deputies seized a several grams of cocaine and a handgun inside the vehicle.

After Lawrence gave investigators consent to search his residence at Apt 6-H Whispering Woods Apartments at 4411 Northside Drive, deputies with assistance from “Hexa”, a K-9 member of the Unit, recovered more cocaine, currency, and another handgun. All totaled, officers seized nearly 2 ounces of Cocaine, (street value of over $6,000), approximately $10,000 in cash, and 2 handguns. Lawrence was taken into custody and charged with:

Cocaine Trafficking

Possession of a Fire Arm During a Commission of a Felony.

Lawrence is currently being held without bond at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Arrest of Bibb Sheriff’s Deputy

A Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputy assigned to the Corrections Division was terminated from employment on Wednesday May 27^th. Bobby Rydale Cowart Jr, age 25, was arrested today by Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators and booked into the Bibb County Jail on charges of Misdemeanor Theft by Taking, and Violation of Oath of Office (felony).

The termination and arrest are related to the theft of a cellular telephone which was taken from a property room where inmate’s personal items are stored. The phone was reported missing on March 31^st. Results of an Internal Affairs investigation lead to Cowart’s termination and arrest. His bond has been set at $6,250. As of 5:30 PM today he remained in custody. Bobby Cowart began employment with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office in September of 2008.

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Friday May 22^nd, 2009

Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards was at the intersection of Hazel Street and Broadway at approximately 10:20 this morning when his county vehicle was struck by a 1998 GMC Jimmy SUV. The driver of the SUV was leaving a parking lot at the intersection and failed to yield to another vehicle traveling on the roadway. The SUV was struck by the oncoming vehicle before colliding with the Ford Crown Victoria occupied by Lt. Edwards.

A female passenger in the SUV got out of the vehicle just before the driver, later identified as 32 year old Benjamin Colby Smith, fled the scene. Lt. Edwards began a pursuit of the SUV which continued on Broadway to Interstate 16 where Smith briefly drove east in the west bound lane before crossing the median and continuing east bound. Smith twice rammed the vehicle of a second Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator during the pursuit. The chase lead to Ocmulgee East Blvd (Highway 129) where the suspect continued fleeing until reaching the intersection of Dolly Lane and Highway 129 in Twiggs County where Twiggs County Sheriff’s Deputies had arrived for assistance.

Smith drove his vehicle through several residential yards before fleeing his vehicle which became disabled near the intersection. Twiggs County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremy Johnson then pursued Smith on foot. The foot pursuit ended when Smith stopped and surrendered upon being confronted by a Bibb Sheriff’s canine. Officers at the scene found drug paraphernalia on Smith’s person after taking him into custody.

Lt. Edwards was not injured in the accident preceding the pursuit and his vehicle received moderate damage. A second investigator’s vehicle received only minor damage. The occupants of the vehicle that originally struck Smith’s SUV were transported for medical treatment of non life threatening injuries.

The female passenger who got out of Smith’s SUV at the accident scene was not injured and was interviewed by Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators. The case remains under investigation. Benjamin Colby Smith has an arrest record including a Robbery conviction in Coffee County for which he received a 5 year prison sentence. Smith will be booked into the Bibb County Jail and faces charges including but possibly not limited to; Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Reckless Driving, Fleeing and Eluding and Leaving the Scene of an Accident. Other charges may be filed against Smith as the investigation continues.

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Friday May 22^nd, 2009

Involuntary Manslaughter Arrest

Members of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force took 22 year old Cail Hampton Huggins into custody Thursday evening. Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators had obtained an arrest warrant on May 21st for Huggins in reference to the death of 31 year old Matthew R. Kersey of Nowell Drive in South Bibb County.

Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the Medical Center of Central Georgia on the morning of May 17 in reference to Kersey’s death. Emergency Medical responders stated that Kersey was found dead at his residence. Witnesses stated that Kersey and Huggins had been in a confrontation at the Nowell Drive residence hours earlier during which Huggins struck Kersey. Autopsy results indicate that Kersey died later from injuries sustained when he fell after being struck by Huggins.

Kersey’s cause of death was not immediately apparent on the day of his death therefore investigators had to wait for autopsy results and consulted with the District Attorney’s Office prior to obtaining the arrest warrant. Cail Huggins is the step son of the deceased Mr. Kersey.

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May 21, 2009

Cocaine Trafficking Arrest

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen arrested 30 year old Ceylon Mason of Decatur, Georgia, 33 year old Lakutha

Mason of Decatur, and 46 year old Winder Gary of Atlanta after a traffic stop on Interstate 75. The stop occurred on the evening of Tuesday May 19^th. Officers found 9 ounces of crack cocaine and a .45 caliber pistol in the vehicle. All three suspects were arrested at the scene and transported to the Bibb County Jail where they were charged with Trafficking Cocaine and Possession of a Firearm during Commission of a Felony. An additional charge of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon was placed against Ceylon Mason. The street value of the crack cocaine is over $30,000. Seizure proceedings have been initiated on the Dodge Magnum occupied by the suspects.

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Wednesday May 13^th, 2009

Aircraft Landing Accident

The Macon Bibb County Fire Department, Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and Macon Police responded to the Middle Georgia Regional Airport in south Bibb County at approximately 2:40 PM today. A privately owned twin engine aircraft was attempting a landing when the landing gear collapsed causing the plane to tip forward. None of the occupants were injured and damage to the aircraft was described as minor. The identity of the occupants has not been released.

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May 12, 2009

Missing Person

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing person. Jacquelin Nicole Mann, age 34 of Macon, is 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs approximately 110 pounds. She was last seen at the BP Convenience store located at 5041 Forsyth Road in Macon. She has been missing since Friday May 8^th, 2009. Her mode of transportation is unknown. Those with information on the whereabouts of Jacquelin Mann are asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or 1-877-68CRIME.

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Monday May 11, 2009

Sheriff’s Investigators Recover $150,000 in Stolen Goods

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators, lead by case leader Investigator Jack Cleveland, recovered nearly $150,000 worth of stolen electronics Friday evening. Investigator Cleveland had been following up on leads provided by last week’s arrest of Gary Mallard at a south Bibb traffic stop. In last week’s incident, Mallard was found driving a pickup truck and trailer loaded with electronics from NYK Logistics on Avondale Mill Road.

Evidence gathered during the follow up investigation lead to 1354 Glendale Avenue where 29 year old Delanio Antwan Lowder was found in possession of nearly $150,000 worth of stolen goods ranging from flat screen TV’s to DVD’s. Lowder remains in the Bibb County Jail charged with Burglary and Violation of Superior Court Probation. He will not be eligible for bond unless the probation violation charge is dismissed by Superior Court.

A second arrest was made as investigators arrived on the scene and stopped 32 year old Marlon Grier who had just left the residence with some of the stolen items in his vehicle. Grier was arrested and charged with Theft by Receiving. He posted a $1,200 bond and was released over the weekend. Additional arrests are expected as the investigation continues. The value of stolen goods recovered during this investigation now totals nearly $200,000.

NYK Logistics stores and ships items for the Wal-Mart warehouse which is also located on Avondale Mill Road. Gary Mallard was a temporary employee who had been working at NYK Logistics last year. Last week’s traffic stop and Friday’s recovery have provided information that will help solve three burglaries that have occurred there since November of 2008.

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Tuesday May 5^th, 2009

Identity Assistance Request

Investigators from the Monroe and Bibb County Sheriff’s Offices are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the female in the attached photos. She is a suspect in a credit card fraud case totaling over $13,000. The female was caught on video using a stolen credit card at the Pionono Avenue Kroger on March 24^th. Video surveillance shows the suspect leaving the store in a newer model white Dodge Charger driven by a black male.

Anyone with information on this suspect is asked to contact Investigator Jack Wood of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office at 478-994-7043, Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-621-5641 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Monday May 4^th, 2009

Commercial Burglary Arrest

A Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolman checked on a vehicle and driver blocking an intersection early this morning and ended up recovering approximately $50,000 worth of stolen electronics. Deputy Johnny Rowe discovered a tan 1987 Chevrolet pickup with an attached trailer parked at the intersection of Walden Road and Industrial Highway in South Bibb County just before 1 AM this morning.

He soon discovered 27 flat screen televisions and 3 home theater systems on the truck and trailer. The driver gave Deputy Rowe false identity information and different versions of how he obtained the electronics before admitting that his driver’s license was suspended. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was impounded. Once at the Bibb County Jail, the suspect was identified as 39 year old Gary Dellario Mallard of Macon. It was later discovered that the electronics were taken during a burglary at NYK Logistics 3279 Avondale Mill Road that had occurred shortly before the traffic stop.

Gary Mallard was booked into the Bibb County Jail on charges of False Information, No Proof of Insurance, No Driver’s License and 30 Counts of Felony Theft by Receiving. His bond was set at $11,685 for those charges. Investigators later added a charge of Burglary which will require a separate bond hearing before he is elligible for release. This is Mallard’s ninth booking at the Bibb County Jail. His past charges include Cocaine Trafficking, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute and driving offenses.

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Friday May 1^st, 2009

Meth Lab Discovery

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen discovered the remnants of a methamphetamine lab inside an abandoned house on Griffin Road this morning in South Bibb County. Deputies were checking the abandoned structure, located at 2061 Griffin Road after receiving a tip about the possibility of a methamphetamine lab there. Bibb Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit Investigators were called to the scene and organized the cleanup and removal of the hazardous materials.

The case remains under investigation.

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MONDAY APRIL 27^TH, 2009

CREDIT CARD SKIMMING INVESTIGATION

The Bibb County Sheriff's Office, Macon Police Department, and United States Secret Service are conducting an

investigation of cases in which debit and credit cards are being skimmed in the Macon-Bibb County area. A

skimming device was recently recovered at a Raceway gas station in West Bibb. The device is being held at the

Atlanta Field Office of the USSS.

Investigation results indicate that unknown suspects may have also used similar devices at one other Raceway

location inside the city of Macon as well as a Murphy USA location. All three locations have since been checked

and were found to be free of skimming devices.

The suspects have used the stolen account information to retrieve money from various accounts through bank

branches located in the North Atlanta area. The suspects were last seen in a late model black or dark blue

Honda Odyssey mini van. Attached are five photographs of the suspects.

Those with information on the case or suspects are urged to contact:

Lt. Paul Edwards Bibb County Sheriff's Office: 478-621-5641pedwards@co.bibb.ga.us

Sgt. Woodford Macon Police Department: 478-803-2557 kwoodford@mpd.macon.ga.us

Macon Regional Crimestoppers: 1-877-68CRIME

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MEDIA CONFERENCE RELEASE

WEDNESDAY APRIL 22^ND, 2009

Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputies from the Patrol Division working with Investigators from the Narcotics and Vice Unit arrested a suspect approximately one hour after an armed robbery that occurred at a south Bibb residence on the evening of Friday April 17^th.

Bibb County Sheriff’s Officers responded to the victim’s residence shortly before 11 PM on the 17^th. The victim stated that she was grabbed by a black male in her garage after arriving home from her business. The black male robbed the victim of her purse which contained cash from her business and a hand gun.

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Investigators, acting on information obtained during other investigations, took 23 year old Douglas Irving Morrison into custody following a traffic stop on Interstate 75 approximately an hour later. Investigators found the robbery victim’s pistol in the vehicle Morrison was driving. In the vehicle with Morrison at the time of the traffic stop was 20 year old Jalesa Twanyona Head of Macon. Head was not arrested at the traffic stop but may face charges in the future as the investigation progresses

After the traffic stop and Morrison’s arrest, investigators served a search warrant at Morrison’s residence, 2327 Mason Street. April Denise Harvey, age 25, was arrested at the residence for 6 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute various levels of prescription drugs, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony and Possession of Drugs within 1000 feet of a Schoolzone. In addition to the prescription drugs, Investigators found cash believed to have been gained from the earlier robbery, 2 shotguns, a pistol and a rifle.

On Tuesday April 21^st, Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators arrested 29 year old Willie Albert Woolfork; also of 2327 Mason Street. Woolfork was booked on charges identical to those of April Denise Harvey in connection with the drugs and firearms discovered at the residence. Investigators have not ruled out future additional charges against Woolfork relating to the robbery.

Information gained during the progress of this investigation may lead to additional charges in at least 2 robberies that occurred prior to Friday’s robbery. One of those being inside the city of Macon. Those details are being withheld to preserve the integrity of on-going investigations.

Douglas Irving Morrison will have to appear in Superior Court to receive consideration for bond. April Denise Harvey’s bond amount was set at $22,800 on April 18^th in Magistrate Court. Willie Albert Woolfork is scheduled for his first appearance hearing this afternoon (Wednesday April 22^nd).

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Monday April 20^th, 2009

Armed Robbery Arrest

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Jack Cleveland recently obtained arrest warrants for 20 year old Brandon Allen Cooper in connection with the armed robbery of two Macon Telegraph newspaper vendors. The robberies occurred on March 29^th and were both in the Chambers Road area. Members of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force took Cooper into custody Friday. He has been denied bond thus far and must appear in Superiour Court for bond consideration.

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Monday April 20^th, 2009

Motorcycle Fatality

Keith Burnam, age 47 of Bibb County, was pronounced dead Sunday evening at the Medical Center of Central Georgia following a motorcycle accident that occurred at approximately 7:45 PM. Burnam was driving a 2004 Harley Davidson Motorcycle in the 5700 block of Sardis Church Road when the motorcycle left the roadway and struck a tree . Burnam was pronounced dead by Coroner Leon Jones at 8:20 PM. The accident remains under investigation.

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Monday April 13^th, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s Office Investigating Sunday Shooting Incident

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to the Gwendale Drive area of Glenn Echo Subdivision West Bibb County early Sunday morning in reference to shots fired in the area. Patrolmen were later dispatched to 2778 Glenn Echo Drive, the home of Stanley and Melissa Walden, reference damage to a vehicle caused by gunfire. No one in the home was injured. The homeowners later discovered that projectiles had struck the home outside a bedroom normally occupied by the Walden’s children. The children were not present during the incident. There was no eye witness that could identify the suspects or vehicle involved in the shooting although Mr. Walden did report seeing gunfire coming from an unknown vehicle near his driveway. Shotgun shells that were discovered later in the morning at the scene were turned over to Bibb Sheriff’s Forensic Investigators for processing.

Bibb Investigators who spoke to the Waldens learned that Stanley Walden is suspected by his wife Melissa Walden of having been involved in an extra marital affair with a female identified as Rachel. Text messages to Stanley Walden’s phone, tentatively identified as coming from Rachel’s phone, arrived on Mr. Walden’s phone minutes prior to the shooting. The message was vague but made reference to and included an apology for something that was about to happen to the Walden’s home. A subsequent message received from the same number included threats to Mr. Walden of exposing his alleged affair if criminal proceedings were initiated.

Mrs. Walden reported being threatened later Sunday morning during a phone conversation with Rachel. Melissa Walden stated Rachel threatened her with physical violence if “Jason”, allegedly referring to 28 year old Jason Lanier of Lizella, were prosecuted. Jason Lanier and Rachel, investigators believe, have children together. Investigators were seeking to make contact with her today.

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are in the process of evaluating electronic evidence as well as shotgun shells recovered at the scene. The various persons involved and mentioned in the incident are being sought out for interviews. Additional suspects not named in the original incident report are being sought for questioning as well. Charges resulting from the investigation could possibly include Aggravated Assault and Criminal Damage to Property.

Those with information on this case are urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Friday April 10, 2009

Carjacked Vehicle Recovered

The black 2006 Honda Accord stolen during this morning’s reported car jacking was recovered in the 2500 block of Greenleaf Drive. The victim reported that a friend of his discovered the vehicle abandoned while driving through the area. Bibb Sheriff’s Forensics Investigators are currently processing the vehicle for evidence.

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Friday April 10, 2009

Carjacking

I gave out incorrect information this morning in relation to a reported carjacking that victims state occurred at 4709 Chambers Road.

Kevin Mackey of Macon stated that he and his friend Steven Mays, also of Macon, met three unidentified black females at a local bar before renting a room at the Country Hearth Inn and Suites. Mays and Mackey were traveling in a 2006 Honda Accord that Mays was borrowing from a friend who is overseas in the military. According to Mays, the three unidentified females met them at the hotel in a dark red Cadillac Fleetwood.

The report states that two of the females were in the hotel room with Mays while Mackey and the third female were in the Honda Accord in the parking lot. Mays stated he heard a gun shot and shortly afterward Mackey came back to the room to tell Mays that the Honda Accord had been stolen.

Mackey told investigators that he and his female companion were approached in the parking lot of the Country Hearth Inn and Suites at approximately 3 AM by an unidentified black male and that the suspect ordered the two occupants out of the vehicle at gunpoint. Mackey further stated that the suspect fired a shot during the incident but indicated the shot appeared to have been accidental. No one was struck by the fired round. The suspect then drove away in the stolen vehicle. Neither Mays nor Mackey knew the names of the females who had been accompanying them. The unidentified females left the scene in a dark red Cadillac Fleetwood before Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies arrived on the scene.

The stolen vehicle was described as a 2006 Black Honda Accord 4 door with an unknown California tag. Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying the three black female witnesses who left the scene in a dark red Cadillac Fleetwood. The females may have been seen at Big Boy’s Lounge on Williamson Road during the evening prior to the incident. Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Thursday April 9, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Trafficking and Firearms Arrest

Investigator Mike Jones of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit arrested three individuals on the afternoon of Wednesday April 8th at 314 Amanda Drive in South Bibb County. Three suspects charged with Trafficking Marijuana are; 21 year old Jeanross Eastant Williams of 314 Amanda Drive (a part time resident of Fort Lauderdale, Florida), 29 year old Touche Jerod Parker of Dove Street in Macon, and 20 year old Shuleria Vuenta Glenn of Milledgeville, Georgia. The three suspects were arrested for trafficking marijuana after taking possession of, through the U.S. Mail, a package that did contain a large quantity of marijuana.

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU investigators were assisted by the US Postal Inspection Service with this investigation. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office S.W.A.T. team made the initial contact with the suspects as they left the residence.

A search warrant was served on the residence and a fully loaded assault rifle and a fully loaded 9mm pistol were seized at the residence. The total amount of marijuana seized during this investigation was approximately 11 pounds with a street value of over $35,000 dollars. Williams was charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime in addition to the trafficking charge. Bond for all three suspects must be set by the Superior Court.

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April 8^th, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Arrest

On Monday April 6^th, 2009, Investigator EJ Jones of the Bibb Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit arrested 26year old Maurice Tyson in the 400 block of Pionono Avenue. Tyson was in possession of 4 ounces of Marijuana. The street value of the marijuana was estimated at $800. Investigators seized Tyson’s 93 Honda Accord. The suspect was booked into the Bibb County Jail and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute. He has since been released on a bond of $1,750.

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TUESDAY April 7, 2009

ARMED ROBBERY

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the Shell convenience store 6230 Zebulon Road Monday evening April 6th. A black male wearing a blue hooded jacket and blue jeans entered the store at approximately 10:30 and brandished a pistol while demanding cash. The suspect left the store on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash. No one was injured during the robbery.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Monday April 6, 2009

Dillard’s Theft Suspect

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Allie Seckinger is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect shown in the attached video. On April 2, 2009 between 11:35 AM and 11:40 AM the suspect stole a 19 inch flat screen TV with built in DVD player from a display near the entrance of Dillard’s department store 5080 Riverside Drive. Please note that the suspect has tattoos on both triceps that show just below the edge of the shirt sleeves.

Anyone with information on this suspect can contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441, Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME, Investigator Allie Seckinger at 621-5675 or Lt. George Meadows at 621-6890.

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Sunday April 5, 2009

Armed Robbery Suspect Captured after Pursuit

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 3:17 AM today from the Flash Foods convenience store at 5602 Thomaston Road. An armed robbery had just been committed there by 3 black male suspects wearing black hoods. The clerk stated the suspects left in a white Honda and gave dispatchers a direction of travel. Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolman Deputy Jeff Monroe spotted the suspects’ vehicle shortly after the call on Foster Road. The suspects refused to stop when Deputy Monroe tried to initiate a traffic stop. A brief pursuit ended when the suspects ran from the vehicle into a wooded area near First Presbyterian School. Bibb Sheriff’s deputies surrounded the area and Sheriff’s Patrolman Mike Carr captured one suspect minutes later near the intersections of Tucker Road and Wimbledon Drive.

The captured suspect is a 16 year old juvenile. Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Frank Thomas is investigating the case and was obtaining juvenile warrants this morning in order to keep the suspect in custody. Anyone with information on the other two suspects is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Thursday April 2, 2009

Traffic Accident with Injuries

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a traffic accident with injuries on Interstate 75 South at Bass Road that occurred just before 9PM on Wednesday April 1^st. Evidence and witness testimony indicate that Jose Perez of Macon was driving a pickup truck and caused a series of accidents. A motor home pulling a trailer overturned after being struck by Perez’ pickup. A third passenger vehicle then collided with the damaged vehicles. Two occupants of the motor home were injured. The extent of their injuries is unknown but believed to be non life threatening.

Traffic flow was severely impeded for approximately 2 hours.

Jose M. Perez, the driver of the pickup truck fled the scene on foot after the accident. He was later found at the Citgo convenience store on Bass Road and arrested. Evidence at the scene indicates that alcohol may have been involved.

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WEDNESDAY APRIL 1, 2009

ROBBERY BY INTIMIDATION

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a robbery that occurred at the Sonic restaurant on Peake Road at approximately 12:45 PM today. Three black males in their late teens to early 20’s took personal cash from an employee outside the store after threatening him. No weapon was displayed. One suspect wore a kaki colored jacket and dark pants. The other two wore black t-shirts and shorts.

The suspects left the scene in a gray 1990’S Ford Crown Victoria. The suspects were last seen on Peake Road headed toward Tucker Road.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Monday March 30, 2009

Rape Suspect Arrested

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards, assisted by Investigators John Edwards and Jimmy Russell of the Peach County Sheriff’s Office last week identified a suspect in a rape that occurred on March 25^th in South Bibb County. Officers with the Montezuma Police Department took 39 year old Ivan Dale Miller into custody Saturday on Bibb County warrants.

Ivan Dale Miller is currently in custody at the Bibb County Jail on charges of Simple Battery and Rape and has no bond. Peach County Sheriff’s Investigators contacted the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office when they recognized Miller’s description from news coverage. Miller has a pending trial in Peach County in reference to a separate rape case.

Investigators believe additional cases and charges will result from continuing investigations.

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Sunday March 29, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at 1607 Bass Road on the morning of Saturday March 28^th at 3:30 AM. Three black males dressed in red and black clothing entered the store and demanded money. One of the suspects displayed a handgun. The suspects left with an undisclosed amount of money. The suspects’ vehicle was not seen.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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March 27^th, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Arrests

Investigator Duncan Matthews of the Bibb Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit acted on information received reference a cocaine delivery to Felton Homes. A previously described vehicle arrived shortly before midnight on March 24^th and when Investigators approached the vehicle Chastin Nipper, age 30, fled on foot but was captured. He attempted to discard two cookies of crack cocaine with a total weight of approximately 28.7 grams and street value of nearly $600.

The driver of the vehicle was Gary Webb age 35. Investigators seized $951 from the suspects. The vehicle belonged to a third party who was not present and was returned to the owner.

This was Nipper’s 24^th arrest in Bibb County. He remains in custody without bond and is charged with Probation Violation Superior Court, Misdemeanor Obstruction, Drug Activity Within 1000 feet of a Government Housing Project and Cocaine Trafficking.

This was Webb’s 16th arrest in Bibb County. He also remains in custody without bond charged with Parole Violation, Marijuana Possession Misdemeanor, Drug Activity Within 1000 Feet of a Government Housing Project, No Driver’s License and Cocaine Trafficking.

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Thursday March 26, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolmen Receive Awards from M.A.D.D

Nine Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrol Deputies were honored today with awards from Mothers Against Drunk Driving at a ceremony which took place at the Macon Centreplex. Law enforcement officers from all over the state of Georgia were presented with awards according to their achievements when compared with agencies of similar size. Deputy Anthony Vadini was presented the DUI Hero Award for his category. Deputy Vadini was recognized as the leader in his statewide group for making the most DUI arrests (124) in 2008.

Other Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies that received awards for significant numbers of DUI cases in 2008 were:

Lt. Chip Wagner, Sgt. Brad Wolfe, Deputy Bruce Jordan, Deputy Sean Defoe, Deputy Johnny Rowe, Deputy Glenn Wilkes, Deputy Phillip Minchew and Deputy Roy Williams.

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Thursday March 26, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Cocaine Arrests

Bibb County Sheriff’s Deputy Anthony Vadini of the Patrol Division’s H.E.A.T. unit received information about drug sale activity at Rivalry's Sports Bar 3896 Northside Drive recently. Members of the Bibb Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit acted on the tip and made two arrests at the location just before midnight on March 25^th.

As investigators approached Brian Koleszar he ran inside the bar. Investigators reported that Koleszar attempted to discard a bag of cocaine but was unsuccessful. Joshua Goldberg was found behind the building in possession of a bag of cocaine. Goldberg was charged with Distribution of Cocaine and Possession of Cocaine. Koleszar was charged with Possession of Cocaine and Obstruction.

Both suspects remained in custody at the Bibb County Jail as of 9AM on March 26^th. Joshua Goldberg’s bond will have to be set by Superior Court. Brian Koleszar has a bond of $2,400.

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Thursday March 26, 2009

South Bibb Sexual Assault

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an assault that occurred on Wednesday March 25^th at around 4 PM. A female victim’s vehicle had broken down on a rural South Bibb road when the suspect stopped and offered assistance. The victim agreed when the suspect offered her a ride. Instead, the suspect drove the victim to a nearby wooded area and sexually assaulted her. The victim was able to get away from the suspect during the assault and ran to a nearby home for help.

Investigators are seeking help from the public in identifying the suspect. He is described as a white male having short, red (military or crew cut) hair and freckles. He is between 5 feet 9 inches and 6 feet tall with a medium build. The suspect may be in his 30’s or 40’s and was driving a dark green pickup truck with a ladder rack and silver tool box. The truck had some type of company logo on the side.

Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441, Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME or Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards at 478-621-5641.

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TUESDAY March 24, 2009

TRAFFIC FATALITY

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred just before 6 PM this afternoon. Christy Chancey, age 28, of Haddock, Georgia was exiting from Adrian Apartments onto Riverside Drive in the 5200 block of Riverside Drive when her Honda Accord was struck by a north bound Ford Ranger pickup truck driven by Kevin Smith of Mansfield, Georgia.

Christy Chancey was pronounced dead at the scene by Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones. No charges have been filed thus far and the accident remains under investigation by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Fatal Accident Investigation Team headed by Sgt. Brad Wolfe.

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MONDAY March 23, 2009

PERSONAL ARMED ROBBERY

Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrolmen and Investigators responded to 5357 Jeffersonville Road shortly before 9:30 PM Sunday evening March 22^nd. Lisa Jones had just arrived at her home when a white male approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, dressed in all black wearing a black hooded jacket approached her in her front yard. The suspect brandished a large revolver and stole her purse. He was last seen running east on Jeffersonville Road. Ms. Jones was not injured during the robbery.

Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to contact Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards at 478-621-5641(pedwards@co.bibb.ga.us) or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Monday March 23^rd, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Arrests

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit, on a case built by Investigator Scottie Evans, served a search warrant at 2841 Walmar Drive today making five arrests. Fourteen bags of marijuana with a total street value of over $400 and $770 in cash were seized. All five suspects were arrested at the scene and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute. Lindsey Brown, age 31 has a Superior Court Probation hold and additional outstanding warrants. He is not yet eligible for bond. Jerami Foster, age 24, has no bond due to a Superior Court Probation Violation, Tecovelin Starling, age 19, has no bond due to a Superior Court Probation Violation, Coutiese Williams, age 26, has a $1,750 bond and Alfred Gary, age 28, has a $1,750 bond.

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Friday March 20, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Arrests

Investigators with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit served a search warrant Thursday at 1519 Florence Avenue. Investigator Robbie Allen was lead investigator on this case. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office S.W.A.T. team assisted. Approximately 2.5 ounces of Marijuana with a street value of $500, ¼ cookie of crack cocaine (street value $400), 2 grams of powder cocaine (street value $200), a .25 caliber pistol and approximately $1,100.00 in cash were seized. The suspects listed below were arrested at the scene.

Durant, Rashad age 28 Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Probation Violation State Court

Neal, Ronald age 25 Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Probation Violation State Court

Harden, Anthony age 24 Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Probation Viol. Superior Court

Neal, Dwayne age 28 Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Released on $1,750 bond

Yates, George age 24 Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Released on $1,750 bond

This case is still under investigation and additional arrests are pending.

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Friday March 20, 2009

Bank Burglaries Suspect Identified

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigator Lt. Paul Edwards has obtained 4 burglary warrants for Amarti Plunkett of Columbus, Georgia. The warrants are in reference to bank burglaries that occurred recently in Bibb County during two of which hundreds of dollars in rolled coins were taken. Plunkett is a black male 32 years of age and 6 feet 1 inch tall. He weighs approximately 173 pounds.

Plunkett has a prior Federal conviction for bank robbery and was released from prison shortly before a string of similar bank burglaries from Phenix City, Alabama to Bibb County, Georgia began. Evidence retrieved from a stolen Toyota pickup that was recovered on Friday March 13^th in West Bibb lead investigators to Plunkett. The Toyota pickup also contained evidence which lead investigators to conclude it had been used in recent bank burglaries. It was reported stolen in Columbus, Georgia days before the Bibb bank burglaries occurred. Amarti Plunkett was last believed to be in the Phenix City area.

Captain Mike Smallwood of the Bibb Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division recently met with investigators from other jurisdictions having similar cases. Information was exchanged in an effort to solve those cases.

The Atlantic Southern Bank in Lizella was burglarized on February 28^th and again on March 13^th. The Robins Federal Credit Union on Zebulon Road was also burglarized on March 13th. No money was taken during either of the March 13^th burglaries. The Colonial Bank on Thomaston Road was burglarized on March 11^th. Several hundred dollars in coins were taken during the Colonial Bank burglary.

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators are working with authorities from other jurisdictions in an effort to locate Amarti Plunkett. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Amarti Plunkett can contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Thursday March 19, 2009

Bibb Sheriff’s NVU Arrests

According to Lt. Chris Patterson of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Unit, his team served a search warrant today at 2990 Dalton Street. Approximately 2 ounces of Marijuana, a .22 caliber Jennings pistol and approximately $978.00 in cash were seized. Five suspects listed below were arrested at the scene.

Collins, Christopher M. age 20 Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime

Cornelius, Michael K. age 20 Possession of Marijuana w/ Intent to Distribute.

Cornelius, Markus age 19 Possession of Marijuana w/ Intent to Distribute.

Cornelius, Karlos age 18 Possession of Marijuana w/ Intent to Distribute.

Mathis, Johntellis age 21 Possession of Marijuana w/ Intent to Distribute.

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WEDNESDAY March 18, 2009

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

A dispute among roommates at 6229 Thomaston Road, Northwoods Apartments, resulted in the stabbing of 20 year old Thomas Johnson. Just before 1:30 AM on Wednesday March 18, 2009, Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to Northwoods Apartments. Statements indicate that Johnson was involved in a verbal dispute with 22 year old Lacey Bell of Bibb County when Bell struck Johnson in the face. Johnson was attempting to restrain Bell when Johnson’s roommate, 22 year old Corey Key, stabbed Johnson in the abdomen.

Thomas Johnson was transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia for treatment and was recovering this afternoon. Corey Key was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault. He was still in the Bibb County Jail as of 3 PM Wednesday with a bond of $5,600. Lacey Bell was arrested and charged with Simple Battery. She was released on a $650 bond at approximately 8:30 this morning.

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WEDNESDAY March 18, 2009

ENDANGERED RUNAWAY FOUND

Fourteen year old runaway, Lauren Harrell, was found today by Crawford County Sheriff’s Deputies at an address on Grace Road. An anonymous tip forwarded by the Bibb Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division lead to her recovery. She was in good health when found and was interviewed by Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators. Lauren Harrell’s case will now be turned over to juvenile authorities. She is currently in the custody of her parents.

No further information will be released at this time.

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Saturday March 14^th, 2009

Update on Bank Burglaries Suspect

The Bibb County Sheriff's Office received a suspicious person/vehicle report from the Motel 6 at 4991 Harrison Road at approximately 11:48 PM on Friday March 13th. Upon arrival a Bibb Sheriff's Patrolman found an unidentified black male in a dark red Toyota Tacoma pickup. The truck had been reported stolen on March 12 from Alabama. The lone black male occupant immediately ran from the vehicle toward the VFW lodge area on Harrison Road and was last seen in that area. A lengthy search of the area involving canines met negative results. The vehicle has been impounded and is being examined by Bibb Sheriff's forensics investigators. It is believed that this vehicle was the one used in the recent bank burglaries. A red gym bag containing burglary tools (similar to the one seen in recent bank surveillance stills) was recovered from the vehicle.

The suspect is described as a black male approximately 5'10" tall weighing approximately 140 pounds. He was last seen wearing blue pants, a blue light weight jacket and a camoflage back pack (similar to the one seen in recent bank burglary surveillance stills). Anyone with information on this case can contact the Bibb County Sheriff's Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Friday March 13, 2009

Bank Burglaries

Two Bibb County banks were burglarized between the hours of 3 AM and 4 AM today. Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an alarm at the Atlantic Southern Bank on Eisenhower Parkway in Lizella shortly after 3 AM this morning to find that entry had been made to the bank. No coins were available on this occasion and the thieves left empty handed. A previous similar burglary occurred at that location on February 28^th.

Approximately 30 minutes later, Sheriff’s Patrolmen responded to an alarm at the Robins Federal Credit Union on Zebulon Road. Once again burglars had made entry and no coins were available. Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are comparing notes with investigators from Crawford County on a similar burglary that occurred at the Atlantic Southern Bank in Roberta shortly before 3 AM today. Bibb Investigators are also working with investigators from Butler and Columbus in reference to very similar burglaries that have occurred between Macon and the Phenix City, Alabama area since December.

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WEDNESDAY March 11, 2009

MISSING TEEN

Lauren Harrell has been missing since March 8^th, 2009. She is 14 years old, weighs 100 pounds and is 5 feet tall. She has blond hair blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans and possibly a Hollister t-shirt. Lauren lives at 944 Unadilla Trail in Lake Wildwood. Her direction of travel is unknown. Investigators believe Lauren left voluntarily with an unknown male she met on the internet. Anyone who thinks they may have information helpful to this case is asked to contact Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigator Allie Seckinger at 478- 621-5675 or the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441

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Wednesday March 11^th, 2009

Armed Robbery Arrests

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators arrested the second of two armed robbery suspects on Tuesday March 10^th. Cleveland Lanthrip age 21 and Domnick Williams age 31, both of Macon are in custody at the Bibb County Jail charged with one count of Armed Robbery each. Deputies took Lanthrip into custody on March 9^th following a domestic dispute. Evidence discovered during the call indicated that Lanthrip was involved in the December 9^th armed robbery of the Value Place Motel 4949 Harrison Road. Information obtained during the subsequent investigation also lead investigators to obtain a warrant for Williams. Members of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force took Williams into custody Tuesday. Neither suspect has been given a bond at this point.

The original media release for this armed robbery case is below.

December 9^th, 2008

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred just before 11:15 this morning at the Value Place Motel 4949 Harrison Road. A man entered, displayed a handgun and demanded cash. The suspect forced the clerk into another room and fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The suspect is described as a black male in his 20’s approximately 6 feet tall weighing around 200 pounds. He wore a tan hooded jacket, dark jeans and dark tennis shoes. Investigators believe the suspect had a white male accomplice who was at the motel desk minutes prior to the robbery. The two suspects are believed to have left the scene in a dark red Plymouth Voyager or Dodge Caravan minivan.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Wednesday March 11, 2009

Bank Burglaries

The Colonial Bank located at 5590 Thomaston Road was burglarized at around 1:30 AM today. The bank’s security company sent a notice of a burglar alarm to the branch manager at approximately 1:26 AM. The branch manager arrived within several minutes and did not notice any obvious damage or signs of entry. The Bibb Sheriff’s Office was not notified of the alarm.

Employees opening the bank hours later noticed that coin vaults at the teller stations had been broken into and that an undisclosed amount of coins had been taken. Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators and Crime Scene Investigators noted that the method of entry to the building’s rear entry door caused very little damage and may have easily been missed during the night hours. Investigators gathered evidence from the scene, examined surveillance videos and canvassed nearby businesses for clues. The case remains under investigation.

A similar burglary occurred at the Atlantic Southern Bank 8340 Eisenhower Parkway on Saturday February 28^th of this year. Deputies were dispatched to an alarm at approximately 8: 48 PM and arrived minutes later to find slight damage to the door. Further investigation revealed that coins had been stolen from the teller stations. Video surveillance showed what appeared to be a male subject of undetermined race wearing a mask, long sleeves and gloves.

Investigators urge anyone with information on these cases to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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THURSDAY March 5, 2009

PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

An East Bibb resident was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Jeffersonville and Irwinton Roads at approximately 8:40 AM today. Amirrah Giddens, age 28 of Majestic Court, was struck by an east bound 1999 Cadillac Deville as she attempted to cross the highway from the Hitchcock Road area to a convenience store on the opposite side. Accident investigators state that Giddens paused in the center lane of the roadway then walked into the side of the vehicle as it approached. She was transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia with non life threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle was not charged in the accident.

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TUESDAY March 3, 2009

DRIVER FLEES FROM ACCIDENT WITH INJURIES

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an accident with injuries that occurred on Interstate 475 South near Thomaston Road at approximately 12:20 this afternoon. Evidence and witness testimony indicate that Mark Anthony Lynch, age 36 of Macon was south bound when he lost control of his white Chevrolet Express work van. Roadway evidence indicates Lynch’s vehicle struck the guardrail on the right shoulder of the interstate, bounced off and struck a white Toyota Highlander occuppied by 66 year old Janice Green and 56 year old David Lapen; both of Florida. Lynch’s vehicle continued to the left shoulder of the interstate and struck the concrete divider where it came to rest.

The Highlander rolled over several times on the interstate and came to rest on its roof on the right shoulder of the roadway. Several motorists had stopped to render aid when they saw Lynch run from his vehicle in a westerly direction. Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies, assisted by members of Middle Georgia R.E.A.C.T. located Lynch within minutes and took him into custody on Intestate Drive after being given a detailed description by witnesses.

Janice Green and David Lapen were both transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia with what emergency medical personnel described as non life threatening injuries. Lynch was not injured during the accident. He will be booked into the Bibb County Law Enforcement Complex on charges of DUI (Drugs), Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Failure to Render Aid.

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FRIDAY February 27, 2009

DRUG ARRESTS BY BIBB SHERIFF’S NVU

1) On February 25^th search warrants were served by the Bibb Sheriff’s Narcotics and Vice Unit at 676 and 668 Pebble Street. Ten bags of marijuana and 70 pieces of crack cocaine with a combined street value of approximately $1,500 were found at the two locations. Several suspects were found at the locations and arrests are pending results of forensics examinations of the evidence.

2) On February 25^th Orlando Richardson, age 33 of Macon, was arrested in room 219 of the Villager Lodge on Chambers Road. Richardson was found in possession of 38 pieces of crack cocaine with a street value of nearly $1,000. Over $1,800 cash was also siezed. He was arrested and charged with Probation Violation Superior Court and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. He is currently still in custody and not eligible for bond due to the probation hold. This is Richardson’s 9^th arrest since 1992.

3) On February 16^th a search warrant was served at 1191 Blvd. Maurice Tyson and Angel Wilson were arrested at the scene. Tyson was charged Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony. Wilson was booked on the same charges. Both have since been released on $2,950 bond each. A semi automatic assault rifle, $8,094 cash, approximately $2,000 worth of marijuana and $720 in counterfeit currency were seized at the scene. The delay in this release was due to an on going investigation stemming from the arrest.

4) Information provided by the U.S. Marshall’s Service lead Bibb NVU Deputies to 5595 Mount Pleasant Road during the early morning hours of Friday February 27^th. Troy Daniel Ryles of 6750 Highway 42 South in Fort Valley was arrested at the scene and charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine. Invesigators found over $5,000 worth of methamphetamine at the address. Investigators have filed to seize a 2003 Chevrolet Impala belonging to Ryles. He remains in custody and is not yet elligible for bond.

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Wednesday February 25, 2009

5^th Arrest in Martha Bowman Burglary

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators made a 5^th arrest yesterday connected to the Burglary of Martha Bowman United Memorial Methodist Church on Friday January 30^th. Brandon George Bettencourtt, age 18 of King Alfred Drive, was booked into the Bibb County Jail Wednesday February 24^th and charged with Felony Theft by Receiving. He was released after posting a $1,200 bond.

Investigators concluded from witness statements and evidence discovery that Bettencourtt assisted the four burglary suspects arrested previously in storing and selling the stolen property. There are no indications thus far that Bettencourt participated in the actual burglary.

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Tuesday February 17, 2009

Burglary and Robbery

A south Bibb resident interrupted a burglary that was occurring in her home just before 9:30 PM Monday. Alice McCracken of Kerry Drive was rushed by two black male suspects who were inside her home when she arrived. One of the suspects was armed with a handgun. The suspects tied the victim and stole an undisclosed amount of cash and a handgun from her. The suspects took all the phones from the home then fled. Mrs. McCracken ran to a neighbor’s home for assistance.

The suspects are described as two black males. One was approximately 5’08” tall. The other was approximately 5’10” tall. No further description was available. The victim owns a business in the Bloomfield area which was robbed in mid January. Keys to Mrs. McCracken’s home were taken during the robbery and it is possible the suspects used the keys to gain entry to her home.

Investigators urge anyone with information on this case to call Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME or the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441.

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Monday February 16, 2009

Weekend Theft Arrests

A burglary in the Glen Echo Subdivision in west Bibb County was witnessed by an alert neighbor on Valentine’s Day at around 1 PM. Three black males in a white 2000 Cadillac Deville stopped at a residence in the 2700 block of Glen Echo Drive. One of the occupants got out of the vehicle, ran to the garage and stole a chainsaw. The neighbor obtained the tag number from the vehicle.

Just over an hour later, Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolman Sedrick Taylor spotted the vehicle on Presidential Parkway and performed a traffic stop. Jonathan Gray, age 22 of 3670 Pine Forest Road and 17 year old Jodeci Askew of 2337 Sanjo Drive in Lizella were both arrested and charged with Theft by Taking. Jonathan Gray was also charged with Theft by Deception. A juvenile who was in the vehicle will also be charged with Theft by Taking. His case will be processed by the Juvenile Court.

Jonathan Gray was release on a $1,300 bond over the weekend. Jodeci Askew was release on a $650 bond. The victim’s chainsaw was recovered at a local pawn shop and returned to the owner.

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February 12, 2009
Bibb Deputy Arrested

Yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, February 11) Bibb Sheriff Jerry Modena was advised by the Atlanta office of the FBI that Bibb County Deputy Gregory Todd Bowden had been taken into custody in connection with using a computer to entice a minor for sexual activity.

The FBI informed Sheriff Modena that Bowden, age 42, had engaged in a series of telephone and Internet conversations with what he believed was the mother of a girl under the age of ten, and that he had gone to Atlanta to engage in sexual activity with the mother and the child. Bowden was arrested by agents when he arrived at a location where he believed he was meeting the mother and child.

The mother and child were fictional identities created by law enforcement officials to identify individuals engaged in illegal on-line sexual activities.

Bowden has been employed by the Sheriff’s Office since November 19, 2001 (7 years, 3 months).
He was assigned to the Corrections Division for 3 years and 4 months and to the Communications Section for 5 years. 10 months.
He had recently transferred to patrol duty on January 3rd of this year.

Prior to becoming a deputy, Bowden had worked at the Bibb D.A.’s Office from April of 1996 until he came to the Sheriff’s Office in November 2001.

Pursuant to Bibb County policy, Bowden has been suspended with pay pending a formal indictment.

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THURSDAY February 5, 2009

TWO ARRESTED FOR LAKE WILDWOOD BURGLARY

A Lake Wildwood homeowner returned to his Chickamauga Drive home shortly after 9:30 this morning to find a gray Honda Civic parked near his house. He wrote down the tag number and was entering the home when he saw two men run from his back door to the vehicle. The two suspects had stacked some of the homeowner’s belongings on the back porch apparently prepairing to load them into the car.

Bibb Sheriff’s Patrolman obtained the owner information from the tag number supplied by the homeowner and went to 230 Edgewater Drive in Lake Wildwood where they found the suspects’ vehicle with the engine still warm. The two suspects were not responding to the door when the homeowner returned to find her house surrounded. Once informed of the morning’s occurences, she allowed Bibb Deputies to enter the home and take Christopher David Lovell and Gary Bernard Sanders into custody. Lovell lives at 230 Edgewater Drive with his mother. Sanders is a Bankston Avenue resident.

Bibb Sheriff’s Crime Scene investigators processed the victim’s home for latent evidence. Christopher David Lovell and Gary Bernard Sanders, both age 18, were transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Complex where they were each charged with Burglary. Provided a $1,200 bond is not posted, the suspects will have a first appearance hearing on Friday February 6^th at 1:30 P

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Wednesday February 4, 2009

Fourth Arrest in Martha Bowman Burglary

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators arrested 18 year old Benjamin Ryan Brantley of Dogwood Circle,Macon, this afternoon. Brantley is the fourth suspect identified and charged in association with the Burglary of Martha Bowman United Memorial Methodist Church on Friday January 30^th. Brantley was booked into the Bibb County Jail at 4:30 this afternoon. He is charged with Burglary and Vandalism of a Place of Worship. His bond has been set at $2,400. As of 5 PM Brantley was still in custody. A mugshot was not available at the time of this release.

Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are still expecting additional arrests in reference to this case. Investigators are working to track down the musical instruments and lap top computers that were taken during the burglary. They urge anyone who has information on the possible location of these items to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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MONDAY February 2, 2009

ADDITIONAL ARREST IN MARTHA BOWMAN BURGLARY

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators have made an additional arrest as a result of the Martha Bowman Church burglary investigation. Matthew Patrick Brown, age 21, of Lower Thomaston Road was taken into custody this afternoon. He was charged with Burglary and Vandalism of a Place of Worship. Investigators are expecting additional arrests as progress in the case continues. A mug shot was not available at release time but will be distributed when produced.

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Monday February 2, 2009:

Arrest of Church Burglary Suspects

Corporal Tony Wynne, a Ranger with the Department of Natural Resources, was on patrol Saturday afternoon January 31st in the Juliette Road area of Jones County when he heard banging noises and went into a wooded area to investigate. He discovered 19 year old Matthew Steven Scroggins and a 16 year old accomplice trying to make entry to a safe. Investigation indicates that the two suspects transported the safe to the scene in a white Jeep Cherokee.

Ranger First Class Chad Welch of the Department of Natural Resources soon arrived as backup. Private John Humphries of the Jones County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and the three officers inspected the evidence to discover paper work indicating that the safes and other items were stolen during a recent burglary and vandalism that occurred at Martha Bowman United Memorial Methodist Church at 500 Bass Road.

Bibb County Sheriff’s Investigators and Crime Scene Investigators were called to the scene and the evidence was processed. The two suspects were taken into custody by Bibb County Deputies. Matthew Steven Scroggins was booked into the Bibb County Jail Saturday afternoon and charged with Vandalism of a Place of Worship and Burglary. A bond of $2,400 was posted on Sunday February 1^st and he was released. The 16 year old juvenile was released to the custody of his parents. Charges against him are pending in the Juvenile Court process. Due to the age of the second suspect, his identity cannot be released. Matthew Scroggins’ address of record is 133 Windemere Circle which is near Martha Bowman Church. The juvenile suspect is also a resident of North Bibb County.

Scroggins was out of jail on bond from a prior arrest when he was arrested Saturday. He was previously arrested by the Macon Police Department in May of 2008 and booked into the Bibb County Jail on 5 counts of Criminal Damage Felony.

The break in this case was made possible by the dedication to duty exhibited by Corporal Tony Wynne, Ranger First Class Chad Welch and Jones County Sheriff’s Deputy John Humphries. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Bibb County are very grateful for their assistance with this case.

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MONDAY February 2, 2009

BIBB DEATH INVESTIGATION

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of 31 year old Oglethorpe Street resident Robert Saxby Jr. Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Polly’s Mirage 3260 Jeffersonville Road at 1:40 AM this morning in reference to a fight. Deputies found Saxby dead at the scene. Bibb Coroner Leon Jones has not yet determined his exact cause of death.

Witnesses at the scene stated that a group of men attacked Saxby and his acquaintance, 31 year old Lorenzo Davis. Testimony indicates that as many as eight individuals may have been involved in the incident. The suspects were not on scene when Deputies arrived. Davis had non life threatening injuries. Investigators are looking into leads as to the possible identity of several individuals who were involved in the fray. No arrests have been made thus far.

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Friday January 30, 2009

Church Burglary

Martha Bowman United Memorial Methodist Church, 500 Bass Road, was burglarized sometime between the late evening of Thursday January 29^th and the early morning hours of Friday January 30^th. The burglary was discovered by a staff member just after 8:30 this morning. Bibb Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigators gathered multiple items from the scene to process for possible finger prints and other latent evidence.

There was no sign of forced entry to the building. Members of a cleaning crew were the last to leave the complex at around 11:30 PM Thursday evening. Suspects used a steel framed chair to break through sheetrock walls in order to gain entry to locked rooms. Investigators state that 16 rooms sustained various types of damage.

Church staff members were still taking inventory to determine exactly what was stolen Friday afternoon. The initial list of stolen items included musical instruments which belonged to church members, laptop computers, computer monitors, jars containing donations and 2 safes which staff members reported were either empty or contained nothing of monetary value.

Those with information which may be helpful to this investigation are urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or 1-877-68CRIME.

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Friday January 30, 2009

Vehicular Homicide Arrest

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 28 year old Tod Chandler Freeman in reference to a December 27^th traffic fatality. He is currently in custody at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Complex charged with First Degree Vehicular Homicide. A bond has not been set for Freeman. The original media release on the incident is below.

December 27^th, 2008

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred just after 11 PM Friday evening. Tod Chandler Freeman II, age 28 of Lizella, was driving a red jeep on Interstate 475 south near mile post 1 where three lanes begin merging into two lanes. Witnesses stated that Freeman attempted to pass several other vehicles in the right lane when he struck the rear of a south bound tractor trailer. Freeman’s Jeep then struck the guardrail and overturned, throwing his passenger, 34 year old Jason Dwayne Lineberger of Lizella, from the vehicle. Lineberger was fatally injured and died at the scene according to Bibb Sheriff’s Accident Investigator Tania Greer.

Tod Freeman was transported to the Medical Center of Central Georgia where he was listed in stable condition. The driver of the tractor trailer, 52 year old Fredrick Lynch of Jacksonville, Florida, was not injured.

Investigators are looking into the possibility that alcohol consumption may have been a factor in the accident. Charges against Freeman are pending. The accident remains under investigation.

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Monday January 27th, 2009

East Bibb Homicide Arrest

James Wilbur Mullis was booked into the Bibb County LEC on January 23^rd and charged with Murder following his release from the Medical Center. A commitment hearing for Mullis is scheduled for February 6^th at 1:30 PM at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Complex. The original media release is below. A mug shot of Mullis is not available at this time.

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating what at this point in the investigation appears to be a domestic related homicide and suicide attempt. Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to 5545 Marion Road at 5:42 this evening. First arriving deputies found 71 year old Betty Mullis in her home dead of an apparent gun shot wound to the head. Her husband, 69 year old James Wilbur Mullis was still alive with what investigators believe was a self inflicted gun shot wound to the head.

Neighbors dialed 911 minutes just before the dispatch at James Mullis’ request not knowing the exact emergency. Mullis left the neighbors’ residence, walked back to his home and was discovered by arriving officers suffering from a gun shot wound. James Mullis was listed in critical condition at the Medical Center of Central Georgia as of 7:30 PM. The case remains under investigation.

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Tuesday January 27th, 2009

Armed Robbery Arrest

Members of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force took 27 year old Darren Andrew Proctor into custody today following an investigation and warrant attainment by Bibb Sheriff’s Investigator Allie Seckinger. The robbery occurred at 4411 Northside Drive on January 3^rd. Bibb Sheriff’s Investigators are working to identify and arrest a second suspect involved in the robbery. Proctor’s first appearance hearing is expected to be held on Wednesday January 28^th at 1:30 at the Bibb LEC. The original case report is attached to this release. For more information on the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force go to http://www.usmarshals.gov/investigations/taskfrcs/rftfs/so-east/se-rftf.htm

Captain Mike Smallwood of the Bibb Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division urges anyone with additional information on this case to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 746-9441 or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Friday January 23, 2009

Wanted Suspect Jumps from 3^rd Floor Window

Bibb Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the Fairfield Inn on Plantation Inn Drive at 10:26 AM today after receiving a report that a theft suspect from a Macon Police Department case had rented a room there. Deputies arrived to find that the suspect had jammed the door lock and was refusing them entry. It was soon discovered that 31 year old Terrell Lewis of 3871 Northside Drive also had an outstanding Child Support warrant from Savannah, Georgia.

While trying to gain entry to the room, the deputies heard what sounded like a window breaking. A Deputy ran to the front parking lot of the hotel and found Lewis lying on the ground recovering after leaping through a glass window on the third floor. Lewis resisted as the Deputy attempted to handcuff him. A taser was deployed against Lewis during the struggle although unsuccessfully. The suspect then ran back and forth across both lanes of Interstate 475 trying to elude Deputies who were pursuing him on foot. Lewis was apprehended on the exit ramp of Interstate 475 North minutes later.

The suspect was examined by emergency medical personnel at the scene and found to be suffering only from minor cuts and abrasions. Terrell Marvis Lewis was transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center where he remains in custody charged with Felony Obstruction, Criminal Damage (Felony) and a hold for Chatham County authorities.

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Thursday January 22, 2009

Sheriff Modena to Host Traffic Safety Event

Sheriff Jerry Modena will host an event for the Middle Georgia Traffic Enforcement Network (M.G.T.E.N) at the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Training Range on Friday, January 23^rd at 7 PM. Over 60 law enforcement officers from agencies throughout Middle Georgia will participate in traffic safety checks that evening following the reception. Traffic safety checks performed by the M.G.T.E.N have resulted in numerous impaired drivers being removed from our highways and often indirectly result in the capture of wanted suspects. The M.G.T.E.N. is a valuable law enforcement partnership. It is one of the tools employed by the Bibb Sheriff’s Office in our mission to make Bibb County’s roads safer for all motorists.

Captain Roger Hayes of the Centerville Police Department serves as coordinator for the M.G.T.E.N. which is one of several networks throughout Georgia. All of the networks operate under the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. For more information, go to http://www.mgten.com/ . The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office H.E.A.T. (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) unit consists of 3 Patrolmen who operate under a grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. These deputies participate in similar events throughout the state as members of the M.G.T.E.N.

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Training Range is located at 110 Confederate Way just off of Exit 6 from Interstate 16 (Ocmulgee East Blvd.).

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Friday January 16, 2009

Death of Bibb Sheriff’s Deputy

Bibb County Sheriff's Deputy Nicholas Cunningham died yesterday evening after a courageous battle with heart disease. He began his career with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office in March of 1994 and most recently served as a Booking Sergeant assigned to the Corrections Division. He was 41 years old. Sergeant Cunningham was a member of the Bibb Sheriff’s S.T.A.T. (Special Tactical Assault Team), was a Field Training Officer and served in the United States Marine Corps. Sergeant Cunningham was well respected by his fellow officers and received commendations from both supervisors and members of the public during his career. Nick was a graduate of Central High School in Macon. He will be greatly missed by everyone at the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

Sergeant Cunningham is survived by his mother Juanita Cunningham; four children, Marcus, Samantha, Natacia and Tatiana; eight grandchildren; and seven siblings. Hutchings Funeral home in Macon is in charge of funeral arrangements.

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Wednesday January 14, 2009

Pedestrian Fatality

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a traffic fatality that occurred at approximately 8:12 AM today. Bibb Sheriff’s accident investigators report that 31 year old Timothy Vest of Macon, an employee of Southland Waste Systems, was working in the 6900 block of Mosley Dixon Road when he walked into the path of a west bound pickup truck and was struck, receiving fatal injuries. Vest was pronounced dead by Bibb Coroner Leon Jones at the Medical Center of Central Georgia at 8:50 AM.

No charges have been filed thus far in the investigation. Indications from the preliminary investigation are that the accident was unavoidable on the part of the west bound driver.

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Friday January 9, 2009

H.E.A.T. Grant Renewed

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office H.E.A.T. (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) unit is currently operating off of a renewed grant from the state of Georgia in the amount of $115, 600. The H.E.A.T. unit consists of 3 Dodge Chargers which were purchased with grant money from the state in 2007. Funds to provide three Patrolmen for the unit are included in the grant. The H.E.A.T. program was developed by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

The H.E.A.T. unit made 275 DUI arrests in Bibb County in 2008 and wrote over 5,000 citations. The unit has and continues to participate in various traffic safety enforcement events around the state. Participating in this program also makes available the resources of the M.G.T.E.N. (Middle Georgia Traffic Enforcement Network). This group consists of over 60 officers from 13 law enforcement agencies in Middle Georgia. Sheriff Modena will be hosting an M.G.T.E.N. event in Bibb County later this month. Information on the upcoming event will be made available in a separate release as the date approaches.

Monday January 5, 2009

East Bibb Homicide

Neighbors dialed 911 just before the dispatch at James Mullis’ request not knowing the exact emergency. Mullis left the neighbors’ residence, walked back to his home and was discovered by arriving officers suffering from a gun shot wound. James Mullis was listed in critical condition at the Medical Center of Central Georgia as of 7:30 PM. The case remains under investigation.

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Monday January 5, 2009

Armed Robbery

The Bibb County She