Peach County officer’s criminal charges dropped in fatal shooting

District Attorney Anita Howard says, "This decision was not made lightly, and I understand its profound impact on the Hooten family and our community."

PEACH COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – District Attorney Anita Howard says criminal charges will not be pursued against Sgt. Hermes Rodriguez from the Peach County Sheriff’s Office after he shot and killed a man.

Peach County Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Hermes Rodriguez attempted to pull over 22-year-old Caleb Hooten near State University Drive in Fort Valley on October 10, 2023.

Hooten did not stop, and a vehicle pursuit ensued. Hooten stopped his vehicle and took off on foot into a residential area.

Hooten was illegally in possession of a firearm with an extended clip. According to a press release, “Hooten took his firearm and held it in a manner that was potentially lethal to Sgt. Rodriguez and others in the vicinity of the incident.”

Sgt. Rodriguez fired his own weapon after Hooten turned toward him with the weapon in hand. Hooten was pronounced dead at the hospital.

District Attorney Anita Howard says, “This decision was not made lightly, and I understand its profound impact on the Hooten family and our community. My heart goes out to Mr. Hooten’s loved ones during this difficult time, and I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”