GAINESVILLE, Ga. — A Gainesville police officer is behind bars in connection with a 2017 domestic incident.
According to the Gainesville Police Department, Officer Derek Evatt is charged with one count of aggravated assault.
On Wednesday, Jan. 23, an investigation began after the department received a formal complaint about an off-duty domestic issue that occurred in late 2017 that involved a minor.
Thursday Chief Jay Parrish asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to conduct a criminal investigation. GBI then issued an arrest warrant.
Police said once they were notified about the warrant, Evatt was released of his employment with the City of Gainesville.
"Although a sad and unfortunate situation, if an officer violates the law, they will face consequences. I, along with my administration, expect all officers to conduct themselves ethically, honestly and with integrity both on and off-duty," Chief Parrish said.
“We do appreciate the complainant coming forward to seek our assistance in this matter," he said. "It is important for us to be as transparent as possible for the community we serve and protect. We have a partnership with the citizens of this community; therefore, processes are in place to ensure that confidence and public trust is maintained.”
Evatt is currently being held in the Hall County Jail.
