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SARDIS, Ga. – A man from Sardis was taken into custody on Thursday after the Burke County Sheriff’s Office responded to several emergency calls concerning his behavior.
Law enforcement officials reported that Benjamin Evan Fitzgerald was seen wearing military-style gear, including body armor. Witnesses indicated that he was armed and appeared paranoid, making verbal threats of violence towards others, including the police, should they attempt to intervene.
Upon conducting a records check, authorities discovered that Fitzgerald had outstanding warrants issued by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office for Aggravated Assault – Family Violence.
In light of the serious nature of the threats, Fitzgerald’s mental condition, and the potential presence of weapons, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office activated its Special Response Team (SRT) to handle the situation.
After engaging in verbal commands and negotiation, Fitzgerald complied with officers and exited his home, allowing deputies to apprehend him without further incident, according to a statement from the Burke County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities state that during the operation, deputies recovered several weapons, a significant quantity of ammunition, and chemical agents traditionally used by law enforcement from the residence.