Thomas Co. Sheriff's deputy charged with theft

THOMASVILLE, GA (WALB) - A Thomas County Sheriff's Deputy is accused stealing from a school and a church. 40-year old Jason Carroll worked with the Thomas County Sheriff's office for 18 years. He was fired after GBI agents found $13,000 worth of stolen goods at his home over the weekend.

Around four Saturday Morning GBI Agents, assisted by Thomasville Police, raided a home on Sandra Street in Thomasville. They found a couple of trailers, an Ex-Mark lawn mower, a John Deer Gator, and a shotgun all of which had been reported stolen.

They arrested Thomas County Sheriff's deputy and Investigator Jason Carroll. The fact that a law officer is charged with breaking the law bothers some Thomas Countians, including Eileen Weiss. "It's sad to hear something like that because we have a very good relationship with all of the police force."

GBI Agent Steve Turner says the items were taken from Brookwood School, New Covenant Church, and a vehicle. One Thomasville resident says sometimes it can be hard to fight temptation. "Everybody I think is tempted. It's just your reaction to that temptation that really counts. As individuals we're all the sum of our choices," said David Tibbot.

Other folks say Carroll needs to be considered innocent unless proven guilty. "These gentlemen are putting their lives on the line every single day and for me to have an opinion on a judgement regarding someone is incorrect until we know all the facts," said Donna Marinachio.

Everyone I spoke with had a similar closing message. "I just hope it all works out the way it's meant to," said Marinachio.

Agent Turner says on top of the theft charges, Carroll is also facing three charges of violating his oath as a law enforcement officer. The Thomasville GBI branch will continue investigating the case. Jason Carroll was an investigator with the Sheriff's office at the time of his arrest. He's charged with burglary, theft by taking, and violation of his oath.

Thomas County Sheriff Carlton Powell released a statement saying, "Law enforcement holds itself to a higher standard and public trust is the pillar from which we must operate. Our image is tarnished and public confidence destroyed when one wearing the badge becomes involved in criminal activity."

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