Richmond County Deputy Jailer Arrested, Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault Involving Inmate

AUGUST, GA – A Richmond County deputy jailer has been fired and arrested following a criminal investigation involving an inmate at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office announced that Avery Matthew Wood, 23, of Hephzibah, was terminated and taken into custody after investigators determined allegations against him were criminal in nature. Wood was hired as a deputy jailer on November 11, 2023, and assigned to the detention center.

According to the sheriff’s office, Internal Affairs received a complaint on Friday, January 2, 2026, involving Wood and a female inmate. After an initial review, the case was referred to the Criminal Investigation Division on Monday, January 5.

That same morning, Wood was terminated by Chief Lewis Blanchard for violations of agency policy warranting immediate dismissal. The criminal investigation continued, and on Tuesday, January 6, Wood was formally charged with three felony offenses: Violation of Oath of Office, Rape, and Sexual Assault.

Investigators allege the incidents occurred while the female inmate was incarcerated at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center, located at 1941 Phinizy Road. The alleged offenses reportedly took place between October and November 2025 and ended when the inmate was transferred to a state facility.

On January 6, Wood was located by the Road Patrol Division and Crime Suppression Team, arrested, and transported to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center, where he is now being held.

In a statement, Sheriff Gino Brantley emphasized accountability within the agency, saying the sheriff’s office holds employees to the highest professional and ethical standards and will act swiftly and transparently when those standards are violated. Brantley added that no employee is above the law and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting the safety, dignity, and rights of those in custody.