Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Addresses Arrest of Woman Shot in Face
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement addressing social media concerns surrounding the arrest and detention of Sophia Evette Kitchens, who sustained a gunshot injury to the face on April 13th and was taken into custody after her hospital release nearly a week later.
The Sheriff’s Office acknowledged public concern and the seriousness of the matter but stated they would not release specific details about the ongoing investigation out of respect for those involved. However, they aimed to clarify misrepresented facts circulating online.
According to the statement, Ms. Kitchens received medical treatment at Augusta University Medical Center and was deemed fit for discharge by medical professionals. The Sheriff’s Office explained that if Ms. Kitchens had not had outstanding warrants, she would have been released home.
Upon her discharge, Augusta University Police Officers executed two outstanding Richmond County warrants for her arrest, including a “no bond” felony related to a family violence incident. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that Ms. Kitchens was medically evaluated and cleared for intake at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center and continues to receive medical care while in custody, with provisions for further treatment if necessary. They also noted the routine guarding of multiple inmates daily at various hospitals.
The statement stressed that law enforcement agencies do not make medical decisions and rely entirely on licensed medical professionals to determine an individual’s stability for release or transport.
Furthermore, the Sheriff’s Office clarified that Ms. Kitchens is being held without bond due to the nature of her charges, as determined by the court system, and that only a judge can modify her bond status. They affirmed their cooperation with judicial officials regarding inmates with medical conditions.
Finally, while unable to provide details of the criminal investigation, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the incident was domestic-related involving multiple individuals and that Ms. Kitchens was not solely a victim in the case. They reiterated their commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect while ensuring public safety and the safety of their staff and those in custody.
