A former Cartersville police officer who once served as the department's evidence custodian is facing charges after state investigators say she stole money from the very evidence room she was trusted to secure. Donna Jean Kelley, 61, was arrested and booked into the Bartow County Jail on September 24.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Kelley, a former Cartersville officer and evidence custodian, was arrested for allegedly stealing money from the Cartersville Police Department's evidence room, according to Atlanta News First. She has been charged with violation of oath of office, first-degree forgery and felony theft by taking.
The case traces back four months, to when the Cartersville Police Department discovered money was missing from its evidence room and formally requested that the GBI step in, according to a WSB-TV report. That request came in late May, kicking off a monthslong state investigation that remains ongoing. The GBI conducted the investigation after Cartersville requested its assistance.
Three Felony Counts
Three Charges
The third charge is first-degree forgery.
Kelley's Role
Kelley served as the Cartersville Police Department's evidence custodian.
Who's Investigating and How to Reach Them
The GBI investigated Kelley’s case. Its Regional Investigative Office in Calhoun is a contact point for information related to the case. The public is asked to call the GBI's regional investigative office in Calhoun at (706) 624-1424 with any information related to the case. The bureau also accepts anonymous tips at 1-800-597-TIPS and through its See Something, Send Something mobile app.
