Houston County School Resource Deputy Fired Following Warner Robins Sexual Assault Investigation
PERRY, GA — A Houston County School Resource Deputy has been stripped of his badge and fired following an immediate Internal Affairs investigation into an alleged sexual assault in Warner Robins.
Nakia Benefield, who had been employed with the Houston County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) since July 2023, was officially terminated effective Monday, June 1, 2026. The swift firing follows a parallel criminal investigation spearheaded by the Warner Robins Police Department and the Houston County District Attorney’s Office.
Sexual Assault Report Triggers Suspension
The crisis began on Monday, May 18, 2026, when Warner Robins police officers responded to an emergency call regarding a sexual assault that had reportedly just taken place. As responding officers gathered initial statements and evidence, Benefield was quickly identified as the primary suspect in the criminal complaint.
Because Benefield was actively serving the community as a School Resource Deputy, HCSO leadership moved immediately upon being notified of the criminal probe. Benefield was ordered to report to administrative headquarters, pulled from his assignment, and placed on paid administrative leave while independent criminal and internal investigations were launched simultaneously.
Internal Affairs Rules Against Deputy
While Warner Robins detectives managed the criminal side of the file, the HCSO Internal Affairs Division reviewed Benefield’s actions against agency protocols. Within 24 hours, internal investigators substantiated multiple severe policy violations and breaches of the department’s standards of conduct.
On May 19, 2026, Sheriff Matt Moulton elevated the disciplinary action, suspending Benefield without pay pending formal termination. Under civil service and agency rules, Benefield was granted a window until May 29 to file an official appeal against his firing. He chose not to contest the findings, allowing his termination to take effect on June 1.
Sheriff Emphasizes Public Trust
In a public statement addressing the firing, Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton emphasized that accountability is non-negotiable, particularly for those wearing a badge.
“Allegations of criminal misconduct involving a law enforcement officer are among the most serious matters any agency can face. Such allegations are taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and addressed decisively. The foundation of public safety is trust. The partnership between law enforcement and the community we serve depends upon accountability, transparency, and professionalism.”
Sheriff Moulton added that the actions of a single employee do not reflect the integrity of the overwhelming majority of the men and women who serve honorably within the agency. Because the criminal file remains active and is currently moving through the Houston County judicial process, the Sheriff’s Office has declined to release further specific details regarding the circumstances of the alleged assault.
