In a surprising turn of events, former Interim Police Chief Jerald Rafferzeder has been nabbed by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) for allegedly pinching police gear. According to the official GBI statement, Rafferzeder, 57, from Forsyth, faces accusations of siphoning a tactical vest worth upwards of $1,500 from the Woodbury Police Department, the very outfit he once commanded.

The agency’s involvement stems from a request by the Woodbury Police Department on January 31, 2024, to probe allegations swirling around their former head honcho. It appears that Rafferzeder’s light fingers extended towards police property following his departure from the force. Following his severance from service, the ex-interim chief somehow got tangled up with a department-issued tactical vest, leading to his arrest.

Subsequently, Rafferzeder found himself booked into the clink at Meriwether County Jail; a stark contrast to the office he once held. The investigation, as noted by the GBI, remains active with the halls of justice churning as they look to add more pieces to this puzzling caper.

Folks with the inside scoop are urged to come forward, an appeal made by the GBI in hopes of knitting together the full narrative. Those with any relevant information can reach out to the GBI’s regional investigative office in Columbus. Tips can also be cast anonymously, be it through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), via a cyber tip line at their official website, or through the savvy use of the mobile app "See Something, Send Something."

Once the GBI concludes their sleuthing, Rafferzeder's fate will lie with the Meriwether County District Attorney’s Office, readying themselves for prosecution. In the meanwhile, the former interim chief must contend with a tarnished badge and the regrettable label of accused thief where once he donned a uniform of public trust. Rafferzeder is expected to have his day in court where the legal system will cast its judgment on the allegations levelled against him.