Macon Mayor, Deputy Police Chief Say Kroger Shooting Investigation Continues

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Macon mayor, and deputy chief of police say the investigation into the shooting death of Sammie Davis Jr. isn’t over.

At a news conference today, the two talked about the DA’s decision, and their decision to remain quiet during the investigation.

After Macon police Officer Clayton Sutton shot and killed Davis outside of Kroger in December, the Macon Police Department went silent. Macon Mayor Robert Reichert says that was the right thing to do.

“If there’s blame it probably rests with me because I instructed the police department not to comment,” said Reichert.

Two and a half months after the incident, the Bibb County District announced criminal charges were not being filed. The DA also released a photo that shows a gash in Sutton’s neck where Davis allegedly scratched him. Reichert defended MPD’s decision not to release information on the picture earlier.

“I would abide by the same rule in an on-going criminal investigation, no comment,” said Reichert.

“We made an agreement not to speak publicly until the DA revealed the casefile,” said Carswell.

The day after the DA closed the case, the mayor and deputy chief said another investigation is starting.

“We are beginning a shooting review and analysis of the complete GBI file,” said Carswell.

Officer Sutton will be behind a desk during the process. Once it’s complete, he could face disciplinary action, or he could be back on patrol.

“Before we completely exonerate anybody, let’s go through the shooting review, whether or not any internal policies or procedures were not followed,” said Reichert.

Going forward, Reichert says it’s time for this community to start trusting again.

“We need to have faith and confidence in the police department that preserves and protects us,” said Reichert.

Reichert announced today, the city is working with the department of justice to address areas of concern for citizens. A public forum is scheduled for the end of March. Carswell says their review should be complete within 10 to 14 days.