Murder Suspect’s Family Speaks Out Against D.A.

When Joni Clements was found shot to death inside her Warner Robins home in early February, the news shocked the neighborhood, and the Clements family.

After more than a month of investigating, police then arrested Joni’s husband, James, in connection with the murder. But James’ sister, Sherrie, says there is no way her brother would have murdered anyone.

“My brother is the sweetest man you would ever meet. He’s mild mannered, soft spoken, always been a law abiding citizen,” Sherrie says.

James was arrested for burglary and felony murder, a charge that could result in life in prison.

James was in court Thursday morning for a bond hearing, but the judge denied James the chance for bond, saying he was too much of a risk for influencing witnesses in the case.

Sherrie and her husband are speaking out against the D.A. of Houston County, because they say James had no motive to kill Joni, and the evidence does not link James to the murder.

“He never once raised his hand at Joni,” Sherrie explained. “Never once raised his hand at his children. Never even beat on me as a little bitty kid or anything.”

Houston County District Attorney, George Hartwig, says he understands that the family is upset, but the police investigation led them to the arrest of James.

“The Warner Robins Police Department has done a very thorough investigation. They have done an outstanding job investigating this case from the get-go,” Hartwig said.

James Clements will appear before a grand jury, later next month.