Rome, Georgia – On Monday, March 13, 2017, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Calhoun Office and GBI’s West Metro Regional Drug Enforcement Office concluded a six-month investigation resulting in the arrest of Ernest Edward Cox, age 39.  Cox is a 15-year veteran of the Rome Police Department and has been charged with one count of trafficking marijuana, one count of violation of oath of office, one count of tampering with evidence, and one count of bribery.

The Rome Police Department contacted the GBI in October 2016 after receiving information about alleged corruption.  Rome PD Chief Denise McKinney requested GBI to conduct a criminal investigation into the allegations against Officer Cox of police corruption.

The Rome Police Department and the Floyd County District Attorney’s Office assisted the GBI in this investigation.

Cox is being held at the Floyd County Jail without bond.

This investigation is active and ongoing.  Anyone with pertinent information is encouraged to contact the GBI at 706-624-1424.

SAC Greg Ramey | GBI-Calhoun | 404/473-5136