GDC Canine Handlers Assist with Capture

Commissioner: Gregory C. Dozier

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Murder Suspect Taken into Custody

FORSYTH, Ga. – On December 29th, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department received a tip that murder suspect, James Pritchet, was hiding at a residence in Alapaha, Georgia.  While attempting to serve the warrant with Tifton Police Department it was determined that Pritchett had left the residence on foot and possibly with a twelve-gauge shotgun.  GDC K9 handlers, Tyler Westlake and Brandon Jewell, along with K9 Lexi were called to the scene to assist local law enforcement. 

Upon arriving on the scene, the handlers established a track which led them approximately three quarters of a mile through a swamp.  After exiting the swamp, they discovered suspect Pritchett had camouflaged himself with branches and bushes next to an oak tree.  Pritchett was taken into custody and turned over to Berrinen County Sherrif’s Department without incident. 

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.