GBI probing allegation of Eton, Ga., police misusing seized money

Arkansas-LSU Live Blog

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating whether employees of the Eton Police Department in Murray County misused seized funds, according to the agent heading the probe.

Jerry Scott, the GBI agent in charge at Calhoun, declined to give details on how many employees are being investigated, if they are police officers or how much money is involved in the case.

Scott said his office began the investigation at the request of District Attorney Kermit McManus, who contacted the GBI on Sept. 15.

"Once the investigation is complete we will turn over the information to the district attorney's office," Scott said.

McManus said Eton city attorney Terry Miller contacted him about the possible misuse of funds. He then sent a letter to the GBI.

An investigation involving misused funds is "very rare," McManus said.

Eton Police Department Chief Brent Hooper did not immediately return a phone message this morning.

A photo on the department's website indicates the city has five officers including the chief. Eton has a population of about 500.

For complete details, see tomorrow's Chattanooga Times Free Press.

Upcoming Events