BREAKING: A former deputy sheriff in Georgia has been indicted on serious civil rights violations, just announced by federal authorities. Buck William Aldridge, 42, stands accused of using excessive force and falsifying reports related to multiple arrests, raising urgent concerns over police accountability in Camden County.
The 13-count indictment charges Aldridge with severe misconduct, including unjustifiably tasing and injuring four individuals during various arrests. This includes incidents from January 2021 to August 2023. Aldridge resigned today, following a request from the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, as the fallout from these serious allegations escalates.
This indictment is particularly relevant as it highlights Aldridge’s troubling history, including the fatal shooting of Leonard Cure, a Black man, in October 2023. Although the indictment does not address this shooting directly, Cure’s family has filed a federal lawsuit seeking $16 million against Aldridge and former Camden County Sheriff Jim Proctor. The family’s attorney, Harry Daniels, noted that the indictment strengthens their case significantly, showcasing Aldridge’s “propensity for excessive use of force.”
Details from the indictment reveal alarming patterns of behavior. Aldridge is accused of unjustifiably tasing a victim in the back and compressing their neck while they were handcuffed. In another incident from August 2021, he reportedly tased a victim in the back of the head. Aldridge’s reports often omitted critical details about his violent actions, including punches thrown and kicks delivered to victims, attempting to cover up his misconduct.
Federal investigators are examining Aldridge’s actions, which advocates say reflect a broader issue of unchecked violence within the Camden County Sheriff’s Office. Current Camden County Sheriff Kevin Chaney stated, “Our duty is to serve the citizens of Camden County with integrity and professionalism,” emphasizing the office’s commitment to accountability.
The case has drawn significant attention, with local NAACP president Timothy Bessent expressing mixed emotions about the indictment. While he is pleased to see some accountability, he voiced disappointment that the indictment does not mention Cure’s case, which remains under scrutiny.
The FBI is actively investigating Aldridge’s actions, underlining the urgency and seriousness of the situation. The community is now watching closely as this case unfolds, with many calling for justice for the victims of Aldridge’s alleged brutality.
As this developing story progresses, stay tuned for updates on the legal proceedings and the ongoing investigation into police conduct in Camden County.
