Written by In a significant legal development, Senior Judge John R. Turner dismissed the final charge against former Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jackie Johnson, who was accused of using her position to protect the men involved in the 2020 killing of Ahmaud Arbery. The dismissal, which occurred on February 5, 2025, was based on technical flaws in the indictment, effectively ending the trial before it reached the jury.
Johnson faced allegations of violating her oath of office, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of obstructing police. The prosecution argued that she showed favor to Greg McMichael, one of Arbery’s assailants and a former investigator in her office, and hindered the investigation by directing that Travis McMichael should not be arrested. However, the judge ruled that the indictment was technically defective and did not allege criminal conduct.
The dismissal has elicited strong reactions from Arbery’s family. His mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, expressed disappointment, stating, “The evidence was there. We all know that Jackie Johnson played a part in the cover-up of the death of Ahmaud.” His father, Marcus Arbery Sr., called the judge’s decision “devastating.”
The case has drawn national attention, highlighting concerns about prosecutorial conduct and accountability in cases involving law enforcement and public officials. Advocates are calling for comprehensive reviews of legal procedures to prevent similar situations in the future.
The killing of Ahmaud Arbery occurred in Glynn County, Georgia. The law enforcement agencies involved in the initial investigation included the Glynn County Police Department. The individuals convicted in connection with Arbery’s death are Travis McMichael, Greg McMichael, and William “Roddie” Bryan.