GLENNVILLE, Ga. — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested Glennville Fire Department Chief Dale Lehman Barnard, charging him with child molestation, aggravated child molestation, and criminal trespass.
According to the GBI, the Glennville Police Department responded Tuesday to a 911 call from a minor who reported that Barnard, 66, entered the child’s home and committed acts of molestation. The Glennville Police Department and the Tattnall County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI take over the investigation the same day.
Investigators said evidence recovered from the home supports the minor’s account. Barnard was arrested and booked into the Tattnall County Jail on Tuesday.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the Glennville community. Some residents expressed disbelief upon learning of the allegations.
“It was a very big shock to me,” said Glennville resident Brendon Ward. “He was my bus driver when I was in elementary school. I always thought he was a good guy.”
Others called for increased scrutiny in hiring practices for public safety positions.
“I think they need to do more research on who they hire,” said resident Lanice Armstrong.
The Glennville Police Department and the City of Glennville declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. City officials have not confirmed whether Barnard has been placed on administrative leave or addressed leadership changes within the fire department.
The GBI said the investigation remains active and will be turned over to the Atlantic Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution once it is complete. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and Barnard is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
