The GBI has been asked by the Jefferson Police Chief to investigate an unspecified incident involving some of his officers.
In a lengthy open letter “To the Citizens of Jefferson,” the chief recently wrote:
“City officials are aware of the incident that occurred in the early morning hours of February 22, 2026 involving officers from the Jefferson Police Department. Upon learning of the incident, our Chief of Police immediately referred the matter to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for a thorough, independent investigation. The officer in question has been placed on administrative leave pending the GBI’s investigation of the incident.
We appreciate that this situation understandably has caused concern in our community. City leadership shares those concerns. However, this matter is currently in the GBI’s hands. The City of Jefferson has and will continue to cooperate fully with the GBI to the extent requested. The City will not make any further substantive comments until the GBI’s work is complete and the GBI has released its independent findings and conclusions. At that time, all appropriate action will be taken.
As always, the City of Jefferson’s primary concern is the safety and welfare of all our citizens. We have consistently been rated as one of the safest cities in Georgia, and we will continue to work with that goal at the forefront.”
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.)