AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) — The case surrounding the death of Jermaine Jones has been turned over to the District Attorney of the Augusta Judicial Circuit, Jared Williams. A spokesperson with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) told NewsChannel 6 the agency has completed its investigation, and the case is now pending review by the district attorney. The case remains open.
Williams confirmed to NewsChannel 6 Monday that GBI turned over files to his office. His office released the following statement Tuesday:
“The District Attorney’s Office is in possession of the initial investigative report into the death of Jermaine Jones, Jr., which was conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The investigative file contains extensive documentation, evidence, and reports to be reviewed before any determinations can be made. This process takes time, as investigative reviews often require consultation with medical experts, in-depth review of the applicable law, and necessary additional investigation. The District Attorney’s Office cannot disclose fact-specific information to the public at this time, but will continue to be transparent with the community on this process and objective in its review of this tragic incident.”
District Attorney’s Office, Augusta Judicial Circuit
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI investigate after deputies tased Jones during a traffic stop. Jones was transported to the hospital after his arrest. Medical documents provided to NewsChannel 6 by Jones’ family state he suffered from a “severe traumatic brain injury” with swelling of the brain, abrasions of the shoulders and no fractures.
Jones’ family has called for the deputies involved in his arrest to be held accountable. The deputies were placed on administrative leave but allowed to return to duty.
“We’re not sleeping on this one,” Jermain Jones, Jones’ father, told NewsChannel 6 in November. “We’re going to get justice.”