Governor Brian Kemp issued an executive order Friday suspending Rabun County Sheriff Chad Nichols following his arrest on charges of sexual battery, public indecency and violation of oath by a public officer.
Gov. Kemp previously appointed a committee comprised of Attorney General Chris Carr, Morgan County Sheriff Robert Markley and Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum to investigate the incident involving Nichols, according to the executive order.
Nichols was arrested on May 31 after turning himself in on charges of sexual battery, public indecency and violation of oath by a public officer. Since that time, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been actively investigating the case.
Major Beth Darnell with the Rabun County Sheriff's Office has been the acting in-charge officer in the meantime.
Executive Order 06.03.24.01 states Nichols' suspension will reportedly last 60 days.
Update published May 31 at 7:02 p.m.:
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is actively investigating a sexual battery case involving Rabun County Sheriff Chad Nichols. Major Beth Darnell has been announced as the "acting in-charge" officer.
The conditions of Nichols's bond reportedly state, "He not be involved in any law enforcement activity in his capacity as sheriff," according to a release by the department Friday afternoon.
Major Beth Darnell will act as the officer in charge until further notice. She has reportedly been employed with the RCSO for 14 years, attended Chief's Training and maintains certifications in both supervision and management, the release said. She currently oversees the Detention Center and Court Services operations.
"The Rabun County Sheriff's Office staff has faith in the leadership of its command staff members," Public Information Officer Kevin Angell said. "We will continue to be a full-service agency that continuously supports our community."
Original story published May 31 at 11:00 a.m.:
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is actively investigating a sexual battery case involving Rabun County Sheriff Chad Nichols, 45, of Clayton.
The agency began investigating the incident allegedly involving Nichols on May 24 at the request of Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney George Christian.
The GBI charged Nichols with public indecency, sexual battery and violation of oath by a public officer.
Nichols reportedly turned himself in and was booked into the Rabun County Detention Center.
No other information involving Nichols' arrest was released.
