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Written by: A. Smith
Published November 20, 2025 @ 10:18 AM ET
JACKSON COUNTY, Ga. – Former Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman was arrested on Wednesday by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on multiple charges, including stalking and misconduct, just hours after announcing his retirement.
Steffman, 49, of Braselton, faces charges of violation of oath by public officer, stalking, harassing communications, and multiple counts of misuse of automated license plate recognition systems. The arrest followed a months-long investigation at the request of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, which found that Steffman allegedly misused the department’s license plate recognition systems to harass and stalk multiple individuals.
Steffman was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Jackson County Jail. Authorities have not disclosed how long the alleged misconduct took place, how many individuals were affected, or whether any other department employees are under review.
Earlier on Wednesday, the city announced Steffman’s retirement, citing personal reasons. Town Manager Jennifer Scott appointed Zach Tiller as interim police chief, effective immediately.
Steffman had been sworn in as Braselton’s police chief in April 2025 after serving as interim chief in 2024. A Connecticut native, he joined the Braselton Police Department in 2005 and served in various roles throughout his career.
In a statement, Scott said the town “is disappointed by the circumstances and the charges and respects that the legal process will take its course. At the same time, we appreciate that these matters require the former chief’s full personal attention and appreciate his years of service. As we look ahead, our priority remains ensuring the safety and protection of our citizens and maintaining the strong level of public service our community expects.”
The GBI said once its investigation is complete, the case file will be turned over to the Piedmont Judicial Circuit for prosecution. The agency encourages anyone with information to contact its Regional Investigative Office in Athens at 706-552-2309. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS, online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or through the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
Once the investigation is complete, the case will be turned over to the Piedmont Judicial Circuit for prosecution.