Chief Jailer to Oversee Operations Following Rabun County Sheriff's Arrest

Rabun County's chief jailer has been appointed to lead the sheriff's office following the arrest of Sheriff Chad Nichols. Kevin Angell, Rabun County sheriff's public information officer, said Nichols placed Maj. Beth Darnell “acting in charge” before the GBI arrested her.

The sheriff was released on $32,500 bail after turning himself in to the jail Friday morning, May 31. Under the conditions of his bond, Nichols is effectively prohibited from participating in law enforcement activities.

The GBI charged Nichols with violation of his oath of office, sexual assault and public indecency. Mountain Judicial District Attorney George Christian said the charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred earlier this month.

Major Darnell has been with the Rabun County Sheriff's Office for 14 years. She completed chief training through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and holds Georgia Post certifications in supervision and management, a news release from the sheriff's office states.

Darnell currently oversees the detention center and court services.

“The Rabun County Sheriff's Office staff has confidence in the leadership of their command staff members,” Angell said. “We will continue to be a full-service agency that continually supports our community.”

The GBI Cleveland office is handling the investigation. A GBI spokesperson says the project is active and ongoing.

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