Butts County deputies were recorded by neighbors conducting a search and arrest of an African-American suspect.
A comment ignited a reaction from the mass as neighbors asked queries about the deputies’ presence in their community. The comment was assumed to come from one of Sheriff Gary Long’s deputies.
One observer who posted on the Facebook thread said, “I’m still trying to figure out why they went in kicking them boys and calling them out they names…”. Another witness added that a Butts county deputy said “they need to put these monkeys in a cage”.
One Facebook viewer posed a question on the public social media thread asking if the Butts County Sheriff’s Office really needed to make such a scene in the community. In an infrequent and some would say unprincipled move, the elected sheriff of Bibb County, Gary Long, decided to openly respond on the Facebook post saying in part:
“hiding out in the attic refusing to come out. Wanted for armed robbery… So yes all of that for a person wanted for a felony… Good news no one was hurt or killed”. Sheriff Long did not respond to other questions posted on the social media site about claims that his deputies involved in violent behavior and used racial insults.
Well respected local social justice organization, The Street Groomers, led by Big Haroun, has now called for a full investigation into the matter and the immediate resignation of Sheriff Gary Long. “Racism and racist statements should never be tolerated, especially from those who are paid by taxpayers to protect and serve. It is shameful that an incident like this was not taken seriously. Communities are becoming more and more disconnected from law enforcement because of failed leadership like Sheriff Long. It is possible to properly apprehend suspects without racial hate being involved.”
The Street Groomers are planning a demonstration at the Butts County Sheriff’s Office and actively working with community residents and leaders in Butts county. Rolling Out will keep you informed of the developments.
