News Summary
Richmond County authorities have made several arrests related to serious sexual crimes targeting vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities and children. Notably, one suspect, Jerrell Chiles, remains at large and is considered dangerous. Other arrests include Terrell Lawshawn Murray, who exploited a disabled individual, and Robert Woods, who has been charged with child molestation. These incidents highlight a disturbing trend in Augusta, prompting officials to urge community vigilance.
Augusta: Multiple Arrests Made in Connection with Sexual Crimes Involving Vulnerable Victims
Richmond County authorities have announced several arrests concerning serious sexual crimes against vulnerable individuals. This includes incidents involving individuals with disabilities and children. Among the suspects, one is still at large and is considered dangerous.
Jerrell Chiles Still at Large
Jerrell Chiles, a 31-year-old man, is currently wanted by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office for aggravated sodomy and exploitation of a disabled or elderly person. The incident linked to Chiles took place on Wednesday in the 2600 block of Deans Bridge Road. He is described as 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds. Chiles is known to frequent areas around Barton Chapel Road and Meadowbrook Drive. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact them at 706-821-1020 or 706-821-1080.
Terrell Lawshawn Murray Arrested for Exploiting Disabled Victim
In a separate but similarly troubling case, 39-year-old Terrell Lawshawn Murray was arrested on Tuesday. He is accused of forcing a victim with severe autism to perform oral sex on him at the Studio Lodge Extended Stay located at 1052 Claussen Road. The incident was reportedly witnessed by the victim’s mother, according to the arrest warrants. Murray is facing charges of aggravated sodomy and exploitation of an elderly or disabled person.
Robert Woods Charged with Child Molestation
In another harrowing incident, 26-year-old Robert Woods has been charged with aggravated child molestation and aggravated sodomy after he allegedly sexually abused an 8-year-old victim on May 21st on the 2000 block of Cairo Drive. Reports indicate that Woods exploited the child’s trust by claiming he had a snakebite that needed to be “sucked out.” Woods is currently being held at the Richmond County Jail.
Jordan Rashad Williams: Assault at Gunpoint
Additionally, Jordan Rashad Williams is in custody for allegedly committing a severe sexual assault on October 14th on the 2700 block of Woodcrest Drive. He is accused of binding a victim’s hands together and sodomizing them at gunpoint. The seriousness of these allegations underscores the threat such individuals pose to community safety.
Context of Recent Crimes
The recent arrests highlight a disturbing trend of sexual crimes targeting vulnerable populations in Augusta. Authorities are taking these incidents seriously, focusing efforts on apprehending suspects and ensuring justice for the victims. The range of offenses—from exploitation of disabled individuals to child molestation—demonstrates the various forms of abuse that can occur within the community.
Families and caregivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or behaviors. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has stressed the importance of community cooperation in addressing and preventing such crimes.
As investigations continue, authorities emphasize that the safety of all residents, particularly the most vulnerable, is a priority. The community is urged to assist in the search for the remaining suspect and support the victims affected by these heinous acts.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Richmond County Deputies Look for Man Wanted in Waffle House Shooting
- WJBF: Augusta Man Accused of Sexually Abusing 8-Year-Old
- WJBF: Augusta Man Arrested, Charged with Aggravated Sodomy
- Augusta Chronicle: Fort Eisenhower Rapist to Remain in Prison
- The Augusta Press: Man Wanted for Attacking Augusta Woman in Home Aggravated Sodomy
- Wikipedia: Sexual Violence
- Google Search: Sexual Crimes in Augusta
- Google Scholar: Sexual Assault Statistics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault
- Google News: Augusta Crime
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
