Former Georgia Deputy Jailed in Bartow County Following GBI Child Abuse Investigation

CARTERSVILLE, GA — A 31-year-old former Bartow County sheriff’s deputy has been arrested and charged with battery following an investigation into the physical abuse of a child, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced.

Andrew Sean Williams, of Taylorsville, Georgia, was arrested on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. He has been booked into the Bartow County Jail on one count of Misdemeanor Battery.

Child Found Walking Alone Sparks Investigation

The case unfolded on Friday, July 10, 2026, when local law enforcement officers discovered a young child walking alone down a street. Officers took the child to the local Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office for protection while they worked to identify the minor and locate their parents.

During the initial safety screening and subsequent inquiry, investigators uncovered evidence indicating that the child had been struck multiple times.

GBI Intervenes Following Sheriff’s Request

Recognizing the involvement of a law enforcement officer, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office immediately requested the GBI to take over the independent investigation into the allegations of physical abuse. State agents compiled evidence demonstrating that the multiple strikes inflicted by Williams had caused visible, minor physical injuries to the child.

Following his arrest by the GBI, Williams was processed into the local detention facility. The Bartow County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Williams is no longer employed by the agency.

Case Status & Resources: The investigation remains open. Under Georgia law, a misdemeanor battery charge involves intentionally causing substantial physical harm or visible bodily harm to another person. If you or someone you know suspects child abuse or neglect, reports can be filed 24/7 with the Georgia Department of Human Services Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-GA-CHILD (1-855-422-4453).