Augusta, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) — A Richmond County deputy, Sean McKenzie, was arrested and fired on Tuesday after admitting to stealing a knife while responding to a call in September 2024.
McKenzie, 34, was charged with theft by taking and felony violation of oath of office, and was booked into the Charles B. Webster Detention Center. The incident took place on September 16 when McKenzie responded to a complaint at a home. Upon arrival, a woman requested that a weapon be secured for safekeeping after her husband allegedly made threats.
The woman handed McKenzie a rifle case containing a rifle and a specialized knife, valued at around $300. This was confirmed by McKenzie’s body-worn camera footage. On January 7, the husband of the woman came to retrieve the items but noticed that the knife was missing. He immediately filed a complaint with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
During the subsequent investigation, McKenzie admitted to taking the knife and securing it at his residence. Following this admission, McKenzie was terminated from his position at the sheriff’s office. Authorities issued criminal arrest warrants, and McKenzie was arrested and booked into the jail.
Sheriff Eugene Brantley expressed his disappointment, stating, “It is always a sad day for law enforcement when one of our own chooses to break the law. We are committed to transparency and equal enforcement, regardless of whether the individual works for us or any other agency.”
McKenzie’s actions have raised concerns within the community, but authorities hope the swift handling of the case will restore public trust in law enforcement.
