ELLAVILLE, Ga. — The small South Georgia town of Ellaville is reeling after longtime City Manager Donna Lynn McChargue was arrested and charged with dozens of felony counts connected to the alleged misuse of city funds.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced that McChargue, 50, was arrested on January 20 and charged with 29 counts of theft by taking. She has served as Ellaville’s city manager since June 2015 and had been employed by the city since October 2014.
According to the GBI, the investigation began in October 2025 after the Southwestern Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office requested assistance in reviewing concerns involving McChargue’s handling of city finances. Investigators reported uncovering suspicious purchases and cash withdrawals during the review.
McChargue was booked into the Schley County Jail following her arrest.
In response, Ellaville’s mayor and city council convened an emergency meeting and approved a preliminary resolution to remove McChargue from her position in accordance with the city charter and her employment agreement. Under the charter, McChargue’s arrest allows the governing body to initiate removal proceedings.
As part of the resolution, McChargue has been suspended from her duties, but will continue to receive her salary until the process is finalized. The city charter grants her five days from receiving the resolution to request a public hearing. If no request is made, the city council may proceed with an immediate termination vote.
Mayor Shane Tondee said the situation has deeply shaken the community.
“This city has never experienced anything like this, not since I’ve been here, and I’ve been here all my life,” Tondee said. “Most people in city government are shocked.”
Ellaville, located in Schley County, has a population of approximately 1,513, according to 2024 census estimates. City leaders said the allegations have had a profound impact on the close-knit community, where many residents personally know city officials.
The GBI said the investigation remains ongoing and is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact its Americus Regional Investigative Office at 229-931-2439.
All charges are allegations. McChargue is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
