ATLANTA, Ga. — Gov. Brian Kemp has ordered a formal investigation into Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch following his arrest on DUI charges last week.
In an order signed Friday, Kemp appointed a three-member committee to investigate Couch and determine whether further action should be taken regarding his ability to serve as sheriff.
The committee includes Georgia Attorney General Christopher Carr, Greene County Sheriff Donnie Harrison and Glascock County Sheriff Jeremy Kelley. The panel has been directed to report its findings to the governor within 30 days.
Couch was arrested Feb. 27 by the Georgia State Patrol and charged with driving under the influence, failure to maintain lane and possession of an open container of alcoholic beverage.
Under Georgia law, the governor may appoint an investigative committee when criminal charges, alleged misconduct in office or alleged incapacity raise questions about a sheriff’s ability to perform official duties.
Kemp’s order states the action follows a request from the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, which asked the governor to convene a committee to review the circumstances surrounding Couch’s arrest.
If the committee determines that the sheriff should face suspension, the governor could then take further action under state law.
The development marks the latest escalation in the fallout from Couch’s arrest.
Earlier Friday, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office released a statement saying the agency continues to operate normally following the incident. Chief Deputy Kevin Head said he is currently in command of the office while Couch is absent and that law enforcement operations remain unaffected.
Couch faces charges of driving under the influence, failure to maintain lane and possession of an open container in the passenger area of a vehicle.
According to a Georgia State Patrol report previously obtained by Now Georgia, Couch’s blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit at the time of the stop.
The investigative committee is required to submit its report to Kemp within 30 days of the order issued Friday.
Stay with Now Georgia for continuing coverage of this developing story.
