Clayton News Daily

A sergeant with the Clayton County Police Department accused of breaking into his ex-wife’s home Sunday was released from the Henry County Jail on Tuesday.

Earlier the same day, Sgt. Thomas James Sheats of Locust Grove appeared before Henry County Magistrate Court Judge Robert Godwin.

“Thomas Sheats did intentionally make physical contact intentionally cause physical harm by squeezing the wrist of Tonya Sheats, causing her wrist and fingers to pop ... ” according to the arrest warrant for Sheats. “Mr. Sheats forced open the door of Tonya Sheats and made entry [Sunday] causing damages to the door.”

Thomas Sheats, 43, is charged with Simple Battery, Criminal Trespass and Interference with a 911 call, according to Henry Police Sgt. Joey Smith.

Thomas Sheats was arrested Monday by the Henry County Sheriff’s Department on misdemeanor charges resulting from a domestic related incident at the home of his ex-wife, said Smith.

“[Sunday] a 911 call was made from the home of Sheats’ ex-wife,” said Smith. “Sheats was not at the incident location upon arrival of officers from the Henry County Police Department.”

Henry County Detectives conducted a follow-up investigation and warrants were obtained for the sergeant’s arrest, said Smith. “Deputies from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office later arrested Sheats Monday without incident,” continued the sergeant.

Godwin set a $1,050 bond for Thomas Sheats, and bound the case over to Henry County Superior Court.

Clayton County Police Department has issued a statement about the officer’s arrest.

“Yesterday, a Clayton County Police officer was arrested in Henry County for charges related to family violence,” said the Clayton County Police spokesperson, Officer C. Ashmore. “The officer has been placed on administrative duty at Clayton County Police Department pending the outcome of the investigation.”