Bonner Struggles With Deputies During Court Hearing, No Bond Set For Suspect in 87-Year-Old Woman’s Murder

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – After four intense days of investigation, Macon police make an arrest in the murder of 87-year-old Christine Cook. Even with a suspect behind bars, police say the investigation continues and the suspect was literally dragged into the courtroom for his first appearance.

Bibb County Sheriff’s deputies held Aurie Bonner III by his hands and feet as he struggled while entering the LEC courtroom on Wednesday. Officers had to physically drag him in to stand before a judge for his first appearance.

Bonner is charged with killing 87-year-old Christine Cook. Cook was found dead in her home off General Lee Road last Thursday. This makes Bonner’s eleventh arrest since 1998.

Even with a suspect behind bars, this is still considered an ongoing investigation. Resident Ruth Rowell says she’s seen a very active police presence in the neighborhood.

“Macon police have been in the neighborhood constantly at first and there’s still a presence here,” Rowell said. “I see them going up and down the street frequently.”

Sounds of chainsaws filled the air while police cleared out the wooded area off Picket’s Ridge was part of its continuing investigation. Neighbors say this is where they found Cook’s car and it is about a block away from her home.

Cook’s daughter, Cheryl Pepper, didn’t want to speak to 41 NBC on camera, but did say she is grateful for Macon PD and all the hard work its officers have down over the last week. Neighbors say they feel better knowing police have a suspect in custody.

“Oh you definitely want him to get caught and make sure they’re off the streets,” Keith Williams said.

“It’s a relief. I just hope they caught the right person,” Rowell said.

Cook’s daughter is glad police made an arrest in her mother’s murder, but says she won’t feel at peace until a trial is over.

Since this is an ongoing investigation, police are staying tight-lipped on any details. Investigators haven’t said how the suspect knew Ms. Cook, but neighbors told 41 NBC he worked on her yard.

Bonner was denied bond and he’s still booked at the Bibb County jail.