WORTH COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — A former Worth County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputy is being charged following an investigation into reported misconduct.

According to District Attorney Patrick Warren, former deputy Jerry Shingler Davis was booked into the Worth County Jail on Sept. 18 on the following charges:

• Sexual exploitation of children
• Violation of oath by public officer (3 counts)
• Electronically furnishing obscene material to minors
• Making a false statement
• Computer invasion of privacy
• Unlawful disclosure, distribution, or sale of driver’s records

On Sept. 22, the GBI confirmed to WALB that its office had been asked to assist with an investigation into allegations involving contact with a minor.

Investigative measures taken

According to a release provided by Worth County Sheriff Donald Whitaker on May 7, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) was requested to investigate after his office received information about the alleged misconduct.

“In accordance with Sheriff’s Office policy and protocol, Davis was placed on paid administrative leave on May 7, 2026, while the independent criminal investigation conducted.”

Later, an internal affairs investigation by the WCSO was also conducted. Following that investigation, Davis was terminated July 28.

The release said that the WCSO further requested joint investigative measures of the GBI and the district attorney’s office to ensure the allegations were “thoroughly and independently investigated.”

On Sept. 14. Davis was indicted by a grand jury, according to the sheriff’s office. District Attorney Patrick Warren confirmed Davis was booked into the Worth County Jail Sept. 18. His bond was at $10,000 by Judge Ralph Powell.

The WCSO said no further details will be released to protect the integrity of the judicial process.

“The Worth county Sheriff’s Office remains committed to accountability, transparency, and maintaining the public’s trust in the men and women entrusted to serve the citizens of Worth County.”

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