Dekito Champ is charged with the murder of his girlfriend Jana Watson last March and police reported that Champ then attempted to take his own life. His arraignment is set to take place today and the charges include malice murder.
The investigation into the death of John Aiken and the fire at his home continues in Tifton. His body was discovered in the bedroom of the residence where officials believe the fire began. The GBI was called in to process the scene and help look into whether the victim died before the fire or because of the it. Arson investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire.
A former Lee County track star ran down his stolen vehicle, dragged the thief from behind the wheel, and held him there until the authorities arrived to investigate. 39 year old Joshua French thought that a vehicle left running and unlocked would be an easy target. However, the victim of the car theft, 27 year old Lavelle Parker who is a former state champion track star chased down the man who took his car and subdued him. The criminal Joshua French was injured during the fight with Parker and treated at a hospital.
Early voting is now underway as Lowndes County voters decide who will be the next coroner. Democratic candidates for the office include Brad Carter and John Hogan. The winner will face republican candidate Austin Fiveash. Early voting will continue from 8 am until 5 pm Wednesday through Friday July 11-15 and july 19-22. ballots may be cast at the Lowndes County Board of Elections 2808 N. Oak Street. The primary run off takes place from 7 am until 7 pm July 26 at polling sites.
A special election will be held in Berrien County to fill the unexpired term of the former sheriff. Anthony Heath was relieved of his post after he entered a guilty plea to charges of violating the civil rights of, and using excessive force against to non-combative suspects. The special election is scheduled to take place along with the general election on November 8. Heath’s term of office would not have expired until December 31.
Chad Edward Shaw an escapee from the Valdosta transition Center has been indicted by a grand jury in Lowndes County. The transition center offers programs to help convicted men making their way back into productive lives via work release programs and counseling. Shaw was located at a convenience store in Thomas County and taken into custody.
