Rossville Man Sentenced to Life Without Parole for Murder of Girlfriend

On December 5, 2024, Christopher Bullock was convicted of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony in Walker County Superior Court. The trial, presided over by Judge Don Thompson, began on December 2 and concluded with a swift guilty verdict after only 20 minutes of jury deliberation.

The case stemmed from the events of October 5, 2023, when Bullock fatally shot his live-in girlfriend, Tammy Cropper, multiple times in their Rossville, Georgia apartment. Bullock then attempted to take his own life by shooting himself in the head. The crime was discovered that afternoon by Cropper’s 7-year-old grandson, who returned home from school to find Bullock injured on the bedroom floor.

An investigation conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and Rossville Police Department revealed that the weapon used in the crime belonged to Bullock. Video surveillance and witness testimony confirmed no other individuals entered the apartment that day. Bullock admitted to shooting himself when questioned by authorities.

Investigators uncovered that the murder was premeditated, citing Bullock’s recent termination from his job, a history of failed relationships, and mounting financial pressures. Days before the incident, Cropper had told Bullock he needed to contribute more financially or their relationship would end. In response, Bullock sent a series of goodbye text messages to family and friends, indicating his suicidal intent.

During sentencing, Judge Thompson imposed the maximum penalty: life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The State of Georgia was represented by Assistant District Attorney Winston Franklin and Chief Assistant District Attorney Kevin Baugh, with support from the District Attorney’s Office team.

District Attorney Clayton M. Fuller praised the investigative efforts of GBI Agent Daniel Nicholson and the prosecution team. “This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for victims of violence,” Fuller said. “If you take a life in our community, you will spend the rest of yours in prison.”