The following was taken from a press release distributed by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office on April 16, 2024:
COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ga. – This afternoon shortly before 2pm, Bobby Burnett entered the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located on County Camp Road in Appling. His purpose was requesting a background check where we discovered he had an active Probation Violation warrant.
Burnett left the building walking to his vehicle where he was confronted by two deputies. Burnett proceeded to drive away dragging Lieutenant Thacker down County Camp Road for approximately 100 yards before Lieutenant Thacker managed to break free from the vehicle.
Dispatchers in our Real Time Crime Center alerted deputies as to what just occurred to include vehicle description and direction of travel. A deputy spotted the vehicle on Columbia Road at South Old Belair Road.
A brief pursuit ensued and GSP assisted by pitting the vehicle on Warren Road in Richmond County. Burnett has been charged with Aggravated Assault involving a Law Enforcement officer, Obstruction of a Law Enforcement Officer and Fleeing/Attempting to Elude.
Ambulance and Fire Rescue units provided medical attention on scene and Lieutenant Thacker was transported to AU Medical Center. He is listed in stable condition.