Funeral Home Operator Charged with 17 Counts of Abuse of Dead Body After Decomposing Remains Found

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has arrested Chris Johnson, 39, of Douglas, on 17 counts of abuse of a dead body. The investigation began on October 26, 2024, when the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office requested GBI assistance after deputies discovered 18 bodies in various stages of decomposition while serving an eviction notice at Johnson Funeral Home located at 2760 US Hwy, US-441 in Douglas, GA (Coffee County).

The investigation remains active, with additional charges anticipated. Those with information are encouraged to contact the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office at (912) 384-4227, the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Douglas at (912) 389-4103, or submit anonymous tips via the GBI’s online portal, tip line, or mobile app. The case file will be submitted to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.