Joseph Tanner

Name:
Tanner, Joseph Andrew

Date of Booking:
11/08/2025

Reason(s) For Booking:
BATTERY (FV)- 1ST OFFENSE

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT (FV)

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT (FV)

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT (FV)

Officer’s Narrative:
[Please note: The following is a direct transcription from the official initial incident report. The Georgia Gazette does not fix any spelling or grammatical errors that may exist. Any changes or redactions made by our staff are placed inside brackets. Some errors may exist. All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The topics discussed may be sensitive to some readers. Discretion is advised.]

[NARRATIVE #1 on October 24, 2025]

On October 24, 2025, at approximately 2159 hours, deputies were dispatched to [1600 BLOCK] GA Highway 32 E in reference to a verbal domestic disturbance reported on an open 911 line with no voice contact.

Upon arrival, I immediately heard loud yelling coming from inside the residence. As I approached the carport, I heard a vehicle start and a door close within the home. I knocked on the front door and was met by a female identified as [WITNESS #1]. Due to the ongoing disturbance and the potential for physical harm to the occupants, I entered the residence under exigent circumstances to ensure everyone’s safety. When asked what was occurring, [WITNESS #1] stated that her son, later identified as the suspect Joseph Tanner, and his girlfriend, the victim [VICTIM #1], were arguing in his bedroom.

I entered the residence and immediately established scene control by separating both parties. I directed Joseph to remain seated on the couch with his mother, [WITNESS #1], while I escorted [VICTIM #1] outside to ensure her safety and privacy for questioning. At that point, Officer C. Chaney arrived on scene, and I directed him to remain inside with Joseph and [WITNESS #1] while I interviewed [VICTIM #1].

Outside, I asked [VICTIM #1] to explain what had occurred. She stated that she and Joseph were sitting in his room when Joseph told her to download and log into Facebook. After doing so, Joseph noticed she had received a friend request from an unknown male, which caused him to become enraged. He grabbed the phone from her hands and slammed it onto the floor, shattering the back glass of her iPhone. [VICTIM #1] reported that Joseph then struck her multiple times with an open hand across the face and began pulling her hair.

[VICTIM #1] stated she attempted to get away by pretending to call 911 while moving toward the bathroom. Joseph followed behind her, trapping her inside the restroom. She said Joseph cornered her in the shower, repeatedly pushed her head against the tile, and wrapped his hand around her throat, restricting her ability to breathe. [VICTIM #1] stated that she was unable to escape during the entire assault. When she finally exited the restroom, she dialed 911 while walking back toward the bedroom, at which time Joseph pushed her onto the bed, slapped her again, and continued pulling her hair.

[VICTIM #1] recalled yelling, “Get the fu*k away from me,” and hearing a female voice inside the home yelling, “Come on, [VICTIM #1],” and “Quit putting your hands on her.”

I examined [VICTIM #1] for visible injuries. She had multiple scratches on her hands, forearms, and face, along with bruising and a visible red handprint around her neck consistent with manual strangulation. I asked if she needed medical attention, and she stated she was having trouble breathing and felt she was experiencing a panic attack. I immediately notified Dispatch to have EMS respond to the scene for evaluation. Based on her demeanor, emotional distress, and visible injuries, I determined she was a credible victim in need of immediate support and medical evaluation.

I provided [VICTIM #1] with information about Magnolia House and the victim-support resources available to her, including a Magnolia House packet and QR code for follow-up assistance.

Officer Chaney remained with [VICTIM #1] until EMS arrived. Shortly thereafter, Investigator B. Atkins arrived on scene, and together we proceeded inside to speak with [WITNESS #1] and Joseph.

When questioned, Joseph Tanner admitted that he and [VICTIM #1] had been in a heated argument and that he had consumed alcoholic beverages. He claimed he simply wanted her to leave and denied ever placing his hands on her. I then asked [WITNESS #1] if she had witnessed any part of the altercation. She stated that she did not see any physical contact but did hear both Joseph and [VICTIM #1] arguing.

Investigator Atkins then made contact with a juvenile, identified as [WITNESS #2], to ensure her welfare and determine whether she had seen or heard anything. [WITNESS #2] stated that she did not see the altercation but did hear the argument.

I exited the residence and returned to [VICTIM #1], who was being evaluated by EMS personnel. I asked how long she and Joseph had been together and how long she had been living at the residence. [VICTIM #1] stated they had been in an on-and-off relationship for approximately three years and that she had lived at the residence for about three and a half months. When asked if similar incidents had occurred previously, she confirmed that they had.

At this time, Deputy D. Bagley arrived on scene, and I briefed him on the situation. Together, we re-entered the residence to make contact with Joseph. I instructed Joseph to get dressed. He asked, “What’s going on?” I repeated the instruction firmly, and he complied. I then placed Joseph in double-locked handcuffs and informed him that he was under arrest. Following the arrest, the suspect was searched incident to arrest for weapons or contraband, with negative results, and was transported without incident. I escorted him to my patrol vehicle and secured him in the transport compartment.

After Joseph was secured, [VICTIM #1] informed me that she had photos and videos documenting prior incidents involving Joseph. The photos and videos provided by [VICTIM #1] were reviewed on her device in my presence and noted for evidentiary reference. Copies were later provided to Investigator Kinard for proper documentation and storage. After reviewing the material, I contacted Investigator G. Kinard (A12), the on-call investigator. Investigator Kinard, who later responded to the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a formal interview with [VICTIM #1], did so with me present.

Investigator Atkins and I accompanied [VICTIM #1] back into the residence so she could retrieve her remaining belongings. Upon entering, [WITNESS #1] attempted to question [VICTIM #1], asking to see the marks allegedly caused by her son. I immediately intervened and instructed [WITNESS #1] to remain in the hallway, advising that such contact was inappropriate and would not be permitted. [VICTIM #1] gathered her belongings and left the residence without further incident.

Deputy Bagley transported [VICTIM #1] to the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office, departing with a starting mileage of 85,974 and arriving without incident with an ending mileage of 85,980.

While on scene, I observed Joseph knocking on the window of my patrol vehicle, attempting to gain attention. I opened the door and asked what he needed. Joseph stated that he had photographs on his phone showing alleged injuries that [VICTIM #1] had caused to him. At my direction, [WITNESS #1] retrieved the phone from the residence and immediately handed it to me. The device was placed into evidence by standard procedure.

I notified Dispatch that I was en route to the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office with one male in custody, beginning mileage 213397 and ending mileage 213403.

Joseph Tanner was turned over to Bacon County Sheriff’s Office Jail personnel, where he was booked, processed, and placed on a 48-hour hold for pending warrants.

[End of Narrative]

[NARRATIVE #2 on October 24, 2025]

On 10/24/2025 at approximately 2322 hours, I conducted an interview with [VICTIM #1] at the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office. This report summarizes the details of this interview to include most recent incident of assault as well as an ongoing history of abuse perpetrated by her partner Joseph Tanner.

Current Incident (10-24-2025)

[VICTIM #1] stated tonight’s incident began when her boyfriend, Joseph Tanner, became enraged after discovering a friend request on her Facebook profile. [VICTIM #1] reported that Tanner controls her social media use and had forced her to re-download the application. [VICTIM #1] said Tanner’s anger then escalated to physical violence.

The victim reported the following sequence of events:

Joseph Tanner began smacking her and pulling her hair.
Joseph Tanner took her cellular phone and smashed it on the ground, causing the back glass to shatter.
[VICTIM #1] retrieved her phone and attempted to retreat to the bathroom.
Joseph Tanner followed her, forced her into the shower, and continued to strike her, causing her head to repeatedly hit the tiled wall.
Joseph Tanner then placed both hands on her throat and attempted to strangle her.
During the ensuing struggle throughout the room, [VICTIM #1]’ face struck a bar inside a closet.

[VICTIM #1]’ stated Joseph Tanner was intoxicated during the assault.

Prior History of Abuse and Evidence

[VICTIM #1] then disclosed a pattern of escalating violence over the past four months and provided digital evidence she had saved to her Snapchat account to prevent Joseph Tanner from deleting it. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated she sends the evidence to the account, saves the photos and videos, and then removes the application from her phone so as not to enrage Mr. Tanner further.

Strangulation (July 7, 2025): Ms. [VICTIM #1] described a prior strangulation incident where Mr. Tanner choked her until she lost consciousness. She reported waking up with numerous broken blood vessels (“red dots”) across her face. She provided a photo dated July 7th documenting these injuries.

Assault with Bottle (June 5, 2025): Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated that in early June, Mr. Tanner became angry over a movie she was watching and forcefully shoved her head toward the ground. Her head struck a glass bottle, causing a large laceration. Ms. [VICTIM #1] reported she still has nerve damage and lacks feeling in that area of her scalp. Ms. [VICTIM #1] did not seek professional medical treatment but instead used “tape stitches” ordered online by the Mr. Tanner. Ms. [VICTIM #1] provided a photo dated June 5th documenting these injuries.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Gun) (June 13, 2025): Ms. [VICTIM #1] reported that on or around June 13th, the suspect pointed a gun at her head. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated this has happened on multiple occasions and that Mr. Tanner “thinks it’s funny.” Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she was able to video record one of these incidents while the suspect was intoxicated and unaware he was being filmed. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated she propped her phone against the television and had it recording because she knew the incident was going to escalate.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Knife) (June 15, 2025): Ms. [VICTIM #1] showed a photo of an injury to her arm, which she stated was the result of the Mr. Tanner throwing a knife at her. She provided a photo dated June 15th documenting this injury.

Relationship and Suspect Information

The suspect is identified as a male (Joseph Tanner) who will be 20 years old next month and resides at [1600 BLOCK] US Highway 32E.

Ms. [VICTIM #1] and Mr. Tanner have been in a relationship for approximately three years. This agency has had prior contact with the victim regarding domestic disputes with the same suspect at the same residence.

Following a previous incident, Ms. [VICTIM #1] separated from the suspect for three months before the relationship resumed. The violence reportedly began to escalate again two to three months after she returned.

Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated she feels unsafe, recognizes a pattern of escalation, and is now ready to end the relationship. She expressed a belief that the Mr. Tanner will inflict similar abuse on future partners.

Disposition and Resources

Ms. [VICTIM #1] agreed to send all photographic and video evidence to Investigator Kinard. Approximately 14 files were transmitted via text message.

Ms. [VICTIM #1] was informed that charges for Family Violence would be pursued. Ms. [VICTIM #1] was provided with a packet and information on obtaining a Temporary Protective Order. Additionally, Ms. [VICTIM #1] was given contact information for community resources, including the Magnolia House and the Waycross Family Justice Center, for therapy, support groups, and crisis intervention.

[End of Narrative]

[NARRATIVE #3 on October 30, 2025]

On 10/30/2025 at approximately 1140 hours, I conducted a follow-up interview with [VICTIM #1] via telephone to clarify information and statements provided on the night of 10/24/25 involving the history of abuse perpetrated by her partner Joseph Tanner.

Interview Participants:

• Victim: [VICTIM #1]
• Investigator: Grace Kinard

Interview Non-Participants:

• Suspect: Joseph Tanner

Purpose: Follow-up interview regarding multiple alleged domestic violence incidents and further guidance on obtaining a protection order and related services.

Protection Order/Resources:

• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reported difficulty contacting an attorney/judge to process a protection order.
• I advised Ms. [VICTIM #1] to contact the Family Justice Center in Waycross, which serves Bacon County, to assist with paperwork, review, and filing. Ms. [VICTIM #1] indicated willingness to proceed and confirmed contact information: [REDACTED] (Magnolia House/Family Justice Center).
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated her intention to attempt an in-person visit this same day and stated she has transportation via a friend.

Historical Incident Details:

1. Incident: Head injury (“busted head”)
Date: Media provided is dated June 5, 2025 at 0555 hours.
Location: Residence ([1600 BLOCK] HWY 32E).

Summary:

• Ms. [VICTIM #1] recounts that while watching a TV show/movie, Mr. Tanner demanded a change due to perceived insecurity over shirtless individuals on screen.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she could not locate the remote to change the show/movie fast enough which provoked a violent reaction from Mr. Tanner. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said Mr. Tanner her head to the floor, impacting it on a bottle, causing a laceration and profuse bleeding.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she “freaked out” at first, and then began passing in and out of consciousness before waking up in the shower where she had been placed by Mr. Tanner in order to rinse away the blood. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she remembers blood covering her body and blood being across the bed.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports that Mr. Tanner reacted to this incident by asking a few times if hospital care was needed; Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she was largely non-responsive and believed she was in shock. Ms. [VICTIM #1] also reports finding her phone wrapped in a T-shirt under a dresser the following day and Mr. Tanner saying he had hidden it.
• No police were contacted by either Mr. Tanner or Ms. [VICTIM #1]. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated Mr. Tanner had been drinking at the time of this incident.

Injuries: Significant bleeding from head; loss of consciousness reported. No medical treatment sought.

2. Incident: Strangulation

Date: Media provided is dated July 7, 2025 at 1032 hours.
Location: Residence ([1600 BLOCK] HWY 32E)

Summary:

• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports it is common practice between herself and Mr. Tanner of going through one another’s phones.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports this incident occured around 0700 hours while Mr. Tanner was preparing for work and was triggered by her discovery of Mr. Tanner’s communications with multiple women via Snapchat. Ms. [VICTIM #1] told Mr. Tanner she was “not in a good mood” and had seen his Snapchat but did not further confront him and did not mention any specific details of what she had seen.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated Mr. Tanner launched on top of her on the bed, grabbed her by the neck, and began applying pressure. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated she was unable to breathe, lost consciousness multiple times, and was in fear of death while begging Mr. Tanner to stop. Ms. [VICTIM #1] could not recall any specific statements made by Mr. Tanner during this incident.
• Afterward, Mr. Tanner left for work and Ms. [VICTIM #1] awoke to find “red dots” all over her face. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she debated calling police but did not, citing prior experiences where she felt police action was ineffective.

Injuries: Burst capillaries on face consistent with strangulation/petechiae per the provided video; no medical treatment sought. No police were contacted due to prior incidents where police failed to take action.

3. Incident: Knife thrown at victim

Date: Media provided is dated June 15, 2025 at 2306 hours & June 16, 2025 at 0928 hours.
Location: Residence ([1600 BLOCK] HWY 32E)

Summary:

• Following a visit to her sister (absent approximately a full day, returned the next day), Mr. Tanner became angry. Ms. [VICTIM #1] states Mr. Tanner does not like her being absent from the home, has always destructive toward her belongings, and has broken at least four of her cell phones. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated the Mr. Tanner doesn’t break his own belongings.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports Mr. Tanner tried to cut up a backpack her sister had given her during this trip by attempting to throw a box-cutter/utility-type knife multiple times. Ms. [VICTIM #1] states Mr. Tanner ended up throwing the box-cutter/utility-type knife at the bag while the Ms. [VICTIM #1] was seated in front of the bag attempting to block any damage. Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports being approximately three feet from Mr. Tanner during this incident. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said the knife penetrated her shirt and cut her right arm; Mr. Tanner later tore the bag open causing it to be destroyed any way.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated Mr. Tanner demonstrated no remorse when confronted with her injury. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she believes Mr. Tanner had been drinking and noted that Mr. Tanner often obtains alcohol via his mother due to being underage.
• No hospital visit after this incident; Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports a persistent scar on her right arm.

Injuries: Laceration to right arm with bleeding; scarring reported.

4. Incident: Firearm pointed at victim’s head

Date: Still image from video dated June 13, 2025 at 2131 hours.
Location: Residence ([1600 BLOCK] HWY 32E)

Summary:

• Ms. [VICTIM #1] anticipated an argument based on a pattern of escalation, set her phone to record, and propped it against the television. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she attempted to divert Mr. Tanner from arguing by trying to calm him and joke with him. Mr. Tanner then pointed a firearm at the Ms. [VICTIM #1] which she identified as a Glock 19; Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated this type of incident has occurred on prior occasions and she has consistently expressed that it was not acceptable behavior. Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated Mr. Tanner thinks doing this is funny.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she is unsure of exact statements made by Mr. Tanner during this incident but recalls threatening language along the lines of threatening to shoot, though she does not recall a direct “I’m going to shoot you.” Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated the gun was typically loaded with the magazine inserted and was afraid for her life during this time.
• No police were contacted after this incident; Ms. [VICTIM #1] cites guilt-tripping by Mr. Tanner’s mother and sister, desire to avoid “drama,” along with doubts about law enforcement’s willingness to take action based on previous interactions.

Firearm ownership:

• Original handgun: Glock 19 reportedly purchased by Mr. Tanner’s mother for him.
• Approximately 2–3 months prior to this interview, Mr. Tanner allegedly traded the Glock 19 with a cousin believed to be named [REDACTED] (last name possibly “[REDACTED]”) for a rifle resembling an AK/AR-style platform. Ms. [VICTIM #1] states a bill of sale/contract was signed.

5. Incident: Strangulation with verbal threat

Date: Not specified by the Ms. [VICTIM #1] (video of incident not time-stamped).
Location: Residence ([1600 BLOCK] HWY 32E)

Summary:

• When questioning Ms. [VICTIM #1] about the video in which Mr. Tanner threatened to kill her, Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated this incident occured because she questioned Mr. Tanner about a contact Mr. Tanner allegedly hid under a different name related to his work.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] stated Mr. Tanner crossed the room and attacked her by grabbing her throat and speaking threats.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] attributes escalation to Mr. Tanner’s drinking and ongoing pattern of abuse.
• The video depicts Ms. [VICTIM #1] standing with her arms by her side, silent, and looking down. It then shows Mr. Tanner grabbing Ms. [VICTIM #1] by the neck, at which time he begins to shake her while backing her out of camera view and stating, “I’m fu*king tired of you, dog.”

6. Pattern of leg and head targeting; prior arrest

Dates: Various; one arrest approximately 1.5 years prior to interview.
Location: (Unknown)

Summary:

• Ms. [VICTIM #1] has a significant medical history to the right ankle/leg: four surgeries beginning at age 17 for severe dislocation and reconstruction from a vehicle crash. Ms. [VICTIM #1] is currently 25 and met Mr. Tanner at approximately age 22. Ms. [VICTIM #1] and Mr. Tanner have maintained a relationship for approximately three years.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] alleges Mr. Tanner intentionally targets preexisting injuries, attempting to stomp on her right foot/leg while he is wearing boots and frequently targets her head despite her requests not to due to an eye injury which is slowly causing blindness.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports a prior incident about 1.5 years ago in which Mr. [VICTIM #1] stomped her leg, causing swelling; both parties were arrested, and charges were later dropped, which contributes to her distrust in law enforcement action.
• Ms. [VICTIM #1] provided a photograph of extensive bruising down a thigh lasting approximately one month; she notes anemia can cause bruising but states the extensive thigh bruising was not consistent with anemia alone.

Additional Context

Alcohol use: Ms. [VICTIM #1] consistently reports Mr. Tanner’s as drinking or intoxicated during most incidents. Ms. [VICTIM #1] states Mr. Tanner’s mother obtains alcohol for him due to him being underage.

Coercive control indicators:

• Hiding the Ms. [VICTIM #1]’ phone to prevent contact or leaving the bed.
• Destroying or damaging Ms. [VICTIM #1]’ property (multiple phones destroyed or withheld; backpack targeted).
• Display and pointing of firearms to intimidate.
• Family members allegedly guilt-tripping Ms. [VICTIM #1] when law enforcement involvement is considered.
• Isolation: Ms. [VICTIM #1] reports limited support network, which she believes Mr. Tanner has contributed to.

Ms. [VICTIM #1]’ state of mind:

• Reports shock, fear for life during strangulation events, and ongoing fear with firearm incidents.
• Expresses loss of hope for the relationship, states she does not intend to reconcile, and is willing to pursue a protection order.

Law enforcement process:

• I explained the cycle of domestic violence, options for protective orders, and that the state can pursue charges and enforce orders but cannot compel relationship decisions.
• I advised that charges will prepared pending completion of paperwork, and would notify the victim when complete.

Evidentiary Items Referenced

Media provided by victim:

• Photographs/video of head injury dated June 5, 2025.
• Video/photos showing petechiae consistent with strangulation dated July 7, 2025.
• Still image from a video of suspect pointing a firearm, dated June 13, 2025.
• Photograph/video of knife wound dated June 15, 2025
• Photograph of extensive bruising to a leg (date not specified).

Physical evidence claims:

• Scar on right arm from knife incident (June 15, 2025).
• Historical swelling from leg-stomp incident (approximately 1.5 years prior; charges reportedly dropped).

Statements Regarding Weapons

Handgun: Glock 19 originally possessed by Mr. Tanner, reportedly purchased by Mr. Tanner’s mother.

Trade: Approximately 2–3 months prior, Mr. Tanner traded the Glock 19 with cousin “[REDACTED]” (possibly last name “[REDACTED]”) for an AK/AR-style rifle; a bill of sale/contract was allegedly signed.

Victim Services and Next Steps

Ms. [VICTIM #1] intends to contact the Family Justice Center/Magnolia House at [REDACTED] for assistance with a protection order and related services.

I instructed Ms. [VICTIM #1] to proceed with the Family Justice Center the same day and to notify me as needed.

Ms. [VICTIM #1] contacted me after this interview to advise that she processed her protection order paperwork with the Waycross Family Justice Center and would have an answer later in the evening.

[End of Narrative]

[NARRATIVE #4 on November 06, 2025]

On 11/6/2025, I submitted the following warrants on Joseph Tanner:

25-299A Battery FVA (Misdemeanor)
25-299B Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)
25-299C Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)
25-299D Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)

These warrants were given to Deputy J. Tilley to attempt service.

I then made contact with [VICTIM #1] to update her on the status of this case. During this time, I inquired into the status of her protection order with the Waycross Family Justice Center. Ms. [VICTIM #1] said she had not received a call back and had been unable to reach the legal advocates since the day she processed her paperwork with them. At this time, I reached out on Ms. [VICTIM #1]’ behalf and connected her to the crisis center where a miscommunication was located within her contact information.

[End of Narrative]

[NARRATIVE #5 on November 08, 2025]

On 11/8/2025 at approximately 1610 hours, I was contacted by Deputy Tilley and informed that Joseph Tanner had been arrested and served the following warrants:

25-299A Battery FVA (Misdemeanor)
25-299B Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)
25-299C Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)
25-299D Aggravated Assault FVA (Felony)

[End of Narrative]