Former Lumpkin County Coroner Ronald Fortner has been convicted on charges of felony theft by deception and violation of his oath of office.
Fortner's Attorney Jeff Wolff confirmed his client was handed a 15-year sentence with three to serve behind bars. In addition, Fortner will pay fines and court fees of more than $34,000. Fortner was taken into custody immediately after Senior Judge Martha Christian pronounced sentence.
Lumpkin County District Attorney Jeff Langley said in his closing arguments in court that Fortner abused the power and authority entrusted to him by the people of Lumpkin County for his own gain and that political leaders must be held accountable. Langley noted that the unanimous verdict in the five day trial was returned just after 7 p.m. Friday following three hours of jury deliberation.
Wolff said he believes the sentence is too harsh, and he has already filed a motion for a new trial.
"You know, you have a man who has never been in trouble his entire life, who has 31 years of good public service," said Wolff in a telephone interview. "It's hard to see what's going to be accomplished by that [the sentence]."
Wolff acknowledged that it may take some time for his client's case to go before another jury.
"My guess would be several months minimum," Wolff said.
Wolff also noted that it took nearly two days to seat a jury in the case because Fortner and his family have such strong ties to the community.
"We worked very long hours for a full week on this case. We certainly respect the jury’s verdict even if we do not agree with it," Wolff said.
Fortner had been accused of billing the county for death investigations that were unneeded; total amount of the billing in question was $3,150. Fortner was indicted a year ago.
