GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — A Doraville police officer has been arrested in connection to 16-year-old Susana Morales' death, according to the Gwinnett Police Department.
A release stated Miles Bryant, 22, with the Doraville Police Department, is being charged with concealing the death of another and false report of a crime. Bryant is being held at the Gwinnett Detention Center without bond. He was arrested while he was off-duty, said Hideshi Valle with the Gwinnett County Police Department.
Last week, Susana Morales' remains were found near the Gwinnett-Barrow County line. She had been missing for more than six months. She had initially been reported missing on July 26, 2022.
"During the course of the investigation, detectives developed enough probable cause to arrest him (Bryant) today but the investigation is still ongoing and fairly new," Valle said. "If there's further charges in the future, those will be known."
The Gwinnett County Police Department said its detectives continue to investigate Morales' death. Officer Valle added the medical examiner is in the process of reviewing the cause of Morales' death.
"At this time, there's no known relationship between them (Bryant and Morales)," Valle said.
Jasmine, Susana Morales' sister, said she was laid to rest Monday. They're angry and saddened to hear a police officer is charged in connection with her death.
“I'm completely shocked honestly. I have no words. I didn’t expect it. We didn’t expect it. We didn’t know what to expect but an officer was probably the least on my mind of theories," Jasmine said.
Susana's family said they don't believe the former officer and teen previously knew each other.
“I want to know everything honestly," Jasmine said. "That’s what we’re waiting for, for all the truth to come to light to piece everything together and get the closure we’ve been wanting for so long.”
Now, the family is focusing on how they want Susana to be remembered.
“I want her to be remembered for her kind soul. She was sweet and nice," Jasmine said.
Jasmine has a strong message for former officer Bryant.
“He doesn't know what's coming for him," Jasmine said. "I promise that everything comes to play, and we'll know everything soon. Everybody is going to get what they deserve at the end of the day. If it's not here, it'll be up there.”
Photos | Susana Morales
In a social media post, Doraville Police said Bryant was no longer employed with them – calling him a "now former police officer" after he was served felony arrest warrants by the Gwinnett County Police Department.
"The City of Doraville and its Police Department are fully cooperating with the Gwinnett Police Department in its investigation of Mr. Bryant," the Doraville Police Department wrote. "Our prayers rest with the family and friends of Susana Morales and everyone else affected by this tragedy."
Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at 770-513-5300. You can also call Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta anonymously at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or submit an online tip.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
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