PEARSON, Ga. (WALB) — A former police chief is now facing dozens of charges after investigators say he stole thousands of dollars meant for children in need.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested Woodrow “Peewee” Wilson Burkhalter, 55, of Coffee County. He is charged with 28 counts of theft by taking and 28 counts of theft by conversion, officials said.

Agents reportedly also arrested his wife, Angela Denise Burkhalter, 53. She faces one count of party to the crime of theft by taking and one count of party to the crime of theft by conversion.

Investigation Details

The case began on Jan. 9, 2026, when the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office asked the GBI to investigate concerns about missing money from the Atkinson County Christmas Fund.

That fund was created to help provide gifts for underprivileged children during the holiday season, according to organizers.

According to investigators, between November 2019 and January 2026, the Burkhalters misappropriated more than $30,000 from the fund.

During part of that time, Woodrow Burkhalter was serving as Police Chief of Pearson and had access to the fund as one of its managers. The GBI said he used that position to take the money.

“Today is a sad day for Pearson and all of Atkinson County. It’s heartbreaking to know that funds meant for our children during Christmas did not reach them. This situation does not involve the current City of Pearson leadership or our Police Department. The individual involved has not been part of the department for several years. Since taking office, we’ve put a strong focus on transparency, accountability, and doing things the right way. We’re going to keep moving forward, keep things open and honest, and keep doing what’s best for our community.”

Arrests and Charges

• Angela Burkhalter was taken into custody by the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office before being transferred to the Atkinson County Jail.
• Woodrow Burkhalter was arrested by the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office.

Both are currently being held in the Atkinson County Jail.

What Happens Next

The investigation is ongoing. Once complete, the case will be turned over to the Alapaha Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

The GBI is asking anyone with information to contact its Douglas office at 912-389-4103. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online or through the See Something, Send Something app.

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