Washington – The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia have announced that Jason Stacks, a former Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Deputy, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to use his law enforcement authority to unlawfully detain and extort money from motorists.
In a shocking revelation, Stacks admitted to conspiring with two civilians to target Hispanic motorists for illegal traffic stops. The trio then demanded payments of up to $500 to avoid arrest or deportation. One such victim, identified as T.C., was unlawfully detained by Stacks and extorted $300 in cash after being driven back to his home.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Jocelyn Samuels for the Civil Rights Division emphasized, “Mr. Stacks admitted that he conspired to use his badge to unlawfully detain and take money from motorists. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute officers who seek to profit from the violation of civil rights.”
U.S. Attorney Michael J. Moore for the Middle District of Georgia echoed this sentiment, stating, “Today’s guilty plea is another example of the zero tolerance the Department of Justice has for law enforcement officers who violate individuals’ civil rights.”
The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. Special Litigation Counsel Forrest Christian and Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Civil Rights Division are handling the prosecution, supported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia.
For inquiries regarding this case, contact Pamela Lightsey at (478) 621-2603.
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Key Facts
- State: Georgia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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