Winder, Barrow County, GA (August 9, 2024) – The GBI has arrested and charged former Barrow County Sheriff’s Office Jailer Lolita Lightner, age 50, of Winder, GA, with Cruelty to Inmates and Violation of Oath of Office.

The Barrow County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI to investigate an incident involving Lightner on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Several Barrow County Jail inmates were affected by a substance believed to be pepper spray that was intentionally put in their food. Lightner was in charge of the care of the inmates. At this point in the investigation, agents suspect that she acted alone.

Lightner was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Barrow County Jail.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office at 770-307-3080 (for anonymous tips) or the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Athens, GA at 706-552-2309. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Once complete, the case file will be given to the Piedmont Judicial Circuit for prosecution.

Contact

Director, Office of Public & Governmental Affairs Nelly Miles

[email protected]