The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has recently made an arrest in a case involving the alleged theft of substantial funds from the Coweta County Department of Corrections. The former employee, Lakina Gay, 49, of Newnan, faces charges of theft after being accused of misappropriating between $50,000 and $100,000 from the prison's commissary account.
Gay, who worked as an office manager, reportedly committed the theft over a four-year span from 2019 to 2023. According to the GBI's statement, the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office reached out for a GBI investigation into the case, which ultimately led to Gay's arrest on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. While the exact methods of embezzlement have not been detailed, this case underlines the serious breach of trust and fiduciary duty within the correctional department.
The arrest was processed, and Lakina Gay has been booked into the Coweta County Jail. The investigation continues, as authorities have reached out to the public asking for anyone with further information to step forward. Individuals may contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Columbus or submit anonymous tips through various channels, including a dedicated hotline and a mobile app designed to report suspicions.
Once the investigation concludes, it will move forward to the Coweta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution, finalizing this chapter of an unfortunate misuse of public funds. As the legal proceedings will set their course, the community awaits justice and the reassurance of integrity in their institutions. Those with information are encouraged to contact the Regional Investigative Office at (706) 565-7888 or submit tips online. The full turn of events can be found in the official press release from the GBI, highlighting the importance of such investigations in maintaining the integrity of our correctional facilities.
