Bibb County inmate pleads guilty in deputy’s 2021 death; jail practices under scrutiny
Bibb inmate sentenced to 25 years for fatal 2021 stabbing; DA cites troubling jail conditions
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- Albert Booze pleaded guilty Wednesday to voluntary manslaughter and aggravated battery in connection with the April 6, 2021 death of Bibb County Deputy Christopher Knight. He was sentenced to 25 years, including 13 to serve in prison and 12 years of probation.
The plea comes after an investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and internal review by the Sheriff’s Office, which revealed both criminal conduct by Booze and troubling practices within the jail.
According to the Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, Booze used a taser and an unauthorized knife during a confrontation with Knight, resulting in the deputy’s death and injuries to another officer. Though Booze initially acted in response to an unlawful assault, prosecutors said his use of deadly force exceeded what Georgia law allows for self-defense.
District Attorney Anita Howard said her office considered Booze’s mental health but emphasized that it did not excuse his actions.
“Mr. Booze has taken accountability for his actions,” Howard stated. “While mental health issues are a factor in this case, they do not excuse the defendant’s criminal conduct.”
Jail conditions under scrutiny
Testimony presented during the plea hearing highlighted long-standing concerns about jail operations. Witnesses, including Deputy Knight’s mother, described a pattern of abuse in an isolated room referred to by some deputies as the “Lieutenant’s Office,” where inmates were allegedly taken for physical punishment away from surveillance cameras.
Booze had been held naked in his cell for hours prior to the incident, reportedly for splashing toilet water at a staff member. He was then escorted, compliant, to the isolated area under the belief he was going for a medical evaluation. According to the investigation, Deputy Knight initiated the physical altercation by striking Booze in the face multiple times.
Statements revealed Booze obtained Knight’s service taser and a knife not authorized for jail deputies. The fatal attack followed.
A call for reform
Assistant District Attorney Tony Mays commended Knight’s mother for her cooperation and courage throughout the investigation.
Howard acknowledged that her office has no control over jail operations but expressed ongoing concern about how institutional practices may have contributed to Knight’s death.
“Every person, whether employee or inmate, has constitutional rights that must be respected and protected,” Howard said. “We extend our continued condolences to Deputy Knight’s family and our gratitude to the investigators who worked to uncover the truth in this difficult case.”
Howard said she has had multiple conversations with Bibb County Sheriff David Davis and is encouraged by the Sheriff’s willingness to improve detention procedures.
