Rockdale County Deputy Receives DUI with More Charges Pending

A 27 year-old sheriff's deputy employed by Rockdale County resigned Sunday after driving drunk and causing a crash that injured two people early Saturday Frances Farmer of Conyers was charged with a Rockdale County DUI and failure to maintain lane after the accident.

A preliminary investigation revealed that Farmer was probably driving a 2010 Ford pickup and when she came to a curve, the truck left the road and struck many trees.

Two passengers in the truck were sent to the hospital with injuries.  If those injuries are serious,  Ms. Farmer will be re-arrested for the felony charge of Serious Injury by Vehicle.  If charged with serious injury by vehicle, she could be facing up to 15 years in prison for each count.  Serious injury has a legal definition that does not necessarily mean a permanent injury, as a you might think.  Serious injury is defined as causing a disfigurement (such as a scar) or loss of the use of member of the body.  The loss of the member does not have to be permanent and even a broken finger is considered causing the loss of a member of the body.  Of course, any scarring or disfigurement is considered a serious injury under the law.

The Georgia State Patrol's assistance was requested by Rockdale County Sheriff's Office since the accident involved one of their deputies and DUI was suspected.

According to Rockdale County Chief Deputy Scott Freeman: “In any case where we have an RCSO deputy that has been involved in an accident, especially with the suspicion of DUI, we request the GSP to investigate in order to ensure complete transparency and objectivity.”

Ms. Farmer was booked into the Rockdale County Jail and was released Saturday afternoon after posting bond.  Before resigning on Sunday, Farmer was placed on administrative leave pending an investigation.

This is yet another example of law enforcement using poor judgment.  Luckily no one was killed.

If you or a family member have been arrested for DUI or any traffic offense, contact the Law Offices of Richard Lawson.  We are here to help you every step of the way.