Former Towns County Deputy Arrested for False Report and Misconduct in December Shooting Incident

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested 26-year-old Austin Bradburn, a former Towns County Deputy, on multiple charges, including false report of a crime and violation of oath of office, following a December 13, 2024, incident in Young Harris, Georgia. Bradburn faces additional charges for false statements and violation of oath of office in Union and Hall Counties.

The arrest stems from a reported shooting during a traffic stop on Plottown Road. Bradburn, while on duty, stopped a silver Honda sedan without a tag. According to the initial report, the driver of the vehicle exited the car and walked toward Bradburn, refusing to comply with commands. The deputy attempted to deploy a Taser, but the man reportedly fought with Bradburn over his gun, eventually shooting the deputy before fleeing the scene in the Honda.

After a thorough investigation, the GBI found discrepancies in Bradburn’s account of the incident, which led to the charges against him. Bradburn was arrested and is currently facing multiple charges for making false statements and violating his oath of office.

The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Towns County 911 or the GBI Tipline at 800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile application.