Inmate Pleads Guilty to Malice Murder in Jail Assault That Killed 71-Year-Old Cellmate

CATOOSA COUNTY, Ga. — A 22-year-old Rossville man has pleaded guilty to malice murder in the death of his 71-year-old cellmate at the Catoosa County Jail and was sentenced to life in prison.

On February 10, 2026, Erwin Vanegas entered a guilty plea for the December 5, 2024 assault on Robert White. Chief Judge Brian M. House sentenced Vanegas to serve life in the Georgia Department of Corrections. He will be eligible for parole after serving 30 years.

According to prosecutors, Vanegas repeatedly stomped on White’s head while the victim was lying in his bed inside their shared jail cell. White was transported to a hospital following the assault and died from his injuries on January 18, 2025.

Lt. Todd Pitts of the Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman and Senior Assistant District Attorney Beth Evans, with assistance from Victim Advocate Shelby Armstrong and Legal Assistants Leann Black and Rachel Moon.

Acting District Attorney Reisman said Senior ADA Evans’ preparation ensured a conviction before the case proceeded to trial. “This conviction sends a clear message that violence will not be tolerated in our jails — or anywhere else in our community,” Reisman said. “Our office remains committed to pursuing justice for every victim, regardless of where the crime occurs.”