United States Attorney G. F. “Pete" Peterman, III, of the Middle District of Georgia announces that on Oct. 28, 2016, Miller County Sheriff Shane Rathel, aged 42, was arrested by Federal Bureau of Investigation agents at the Albany FBI office on charges of selling two stolen firearms.
Copies of the complaint and supporting affidavit are attached. The complaint is only an allegation of criminal conduct. Sheriff Rathel is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, Sheriff Rathel faces a potential maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, on each count.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan Dasher. The case was investigated by the Albany office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Inquiries regarding this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office at (478) 621-2603.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
