Former Dade County Jail Commander Arrested on Theft, Oath Violation Charges
TRENTON, Georgia – A former Dade County Sheriff’s Office jail commander has been arrested following an investigation into allegations that county funds were used for personal purchases.
According to officials, Dade County Chief Deputy Tommy Bradford requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on May 28, 2026, to examine financial records associated with the Dade County Jail after concerns arose regarding purchases allegedly made by former Jail Administrator Joseph William Chambers.
The investigation focused on allegations that Chambers improperly used county funds for personal expenses while serving in his position with the sheriff’s office.
After reviewing preliminary findings from the investigation, Chief Deputy Bradford terminated Chambers’ employment on June 1.
The GBI continued its investigation and, on June 4, obtained two arrest warrants for Chambers.
Authorities said Chambers, 52, of Flintstone, Georgia, turned himself in to the Dade County Jail later that same day.
Chambers was booked on the following charges:
- Theft by Conversion
- Violation of Oath by a Public Officer
According to the GBI, the charges stem from allegations that Chambers converted county funds for personal use while employed by the Dade County Sheriff’s Office.
Chambers previously served as president of the Georgia Jail Association from 2024 to 2026.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information may be released as it becomes available.
No further details regarding the amount of money involved or the specific purchases have been released.
