WAYNESBORO, Ga. () – Burke County is making headlines as Sheriff Alfonzo Williams faces six federal indictments, following accusations of public corruption and related crimes brought forth by a federal grand jury.
The legal troubles stem from allegations that Sheriff Williams accepted bribes to dismiss DUI charges for five individuals during a nine-month span from 2021 to 2022. Additionally, federal prosecutors claim he illegally supplied a firearm to a convicted felon in January 2023.
The federal indictment was briefly discussed during Tuesday’s Burke County Commission meeting, highlighting its significance within the community.
County Manager Merv Waldrop acknowledged prior concerns, noting that financial discrepancies had already been identified within the sheriff’s office, triggering worries about the proper allocation of county funds and necessitating further scrutiny.
“I’m accountable to the county commission, to Burke County residents, and to the state of Georgia for the responsible management of every dollar,” Waldrop stated. “Whenever issues are uncovered, they raise alarms, and it’s my duty to report those findings.”
Waldrop also explained that Williams remains sheriff unless action is taken by the governor.
He said that in situations involving a sheriff facing criminal charges, a review commission may be appointed to examine the case. Based on the commission’s findings and recommendations from the Georgia Attorney General, the governor can decide whether to suspend the sheriff from office while the case proceeds.
As of Tuesday night, Sheriff Williams had made a statement on his personal Facebook page but had not publicly responded to the allegations.
The investigation remains ongoing. At the moment, charges contained in the indictment are allegations, and Sheriff Alfonzo Williams is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.