Newnan Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Shooting Girlfriend, Leaving Her Paralyzed

On September 9, 2024, Timothy Leon Washington, 39, of Newnan, was sentenced to 45 years in prison by Superior Court Judge Travis Sakrison after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including Attempted Murder. The 13-count indictment against Washington also included charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm as a Felon and During the Commission of a Felony.

Washington was convicted for shooting his girlfriend multiple times on May 11, 2022, resulting in her being paralyzed from the waist down. The victim was shot in the jaw and abdomen and appeared in a wheelchair at Washington’s sentencing but chose not to address the Court.

The case, prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Scott Teague and investigated by Coweta County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Chris Stapler, details that Washington and the victim were staying in a motel on Highway 29 in Coweta County after relapsing from a substance abuse facility. On the night of the shooting, Washington entered their motel room and opened fire around midnight. A neighboring resident heard the shots and the victim’s cries for help, prompting the front desk clerk to call 911. Surveillance video captured Washington entering and exiting the room where the victim was found bleeding from three gunshot wounds.

Washington was later located at a nearby motel, leading to a lengthy standoff that ended with his peaceful surrender. Law enforcement found a pistol matching the caliber used in the shooting along the path between the two motels. The weapon had jammed, which likely prevented the victim’s death.

While Washington’s crimes are parole eligible, the District Attorney’s Office aims for him to serve the full 45-year sentence to ensure justice for the victim, who will be affected for the rest of her life.