Coffee County Firefighter Arrested by GBI on Child Sexual Battery Charge

DOUGLAS, Ga. – A Coffee County firefighter was arrested by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on Oct. 9, 2026, following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate contact involving a child under the age of 16.

The suspect, identified by authorities as Minix, was charged with sexual battery against a child under 16 and booked into the Coffee County Jail.

The investigation began June 12, 2026, when the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office received a report alleging inappropriate contact between Minix and a child.

Coffee County Sheriff Fred Cole requested assistance from the GBI to ensure the allegations were investigated independently.

Alleged Incident Did Not Occur While Firefighter Was on Duty

According to the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, Minix was employed by the Coffee County Fire Department at the time of the alleged incident.

However, authorities emphasized that the reported offense did not occur while Minix was performing his duties as a firefighter.

The sheriff’s office did not disclose the child’s age, the location of the alleged incident or additional details about the allegations.

Investigators also did not release information about Minix’s current employment status with the fire department.

Following an investigation lasting nearly four months, GBI agents arrested Minix on Oct. 9.

Sheriff Says No One Is Above the Law

Sheriff Fred Cole said the investigation reflects the department’s commitment to holding individuals accountable regardless of their profession or standing in the community.

“Doesn’t matter who you are, where you work, or how much you contribute to this community. If you break the law or violate another person, we will investigate it, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Cole said.

“Our responsibility is to protect this community, especially our children, and we take that responsibility seriously.”

GBI Investigation Remains Active

The GBI investigation remains ongoing.

Once completed, the investigative findings will be forwarded to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review and prosecution.

Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office at 912-384-4227 or the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Douglas at 912-389-4103.

Anonymous tips may also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), visiting the GBI’s online tip submission page or using the See Something, Send Something mobile application.