DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — Dawson County Sheriff Jeff Johnson is being credited with diffusing a dangerous situation inside the front lobby of the Dawson County Law Enforcement Center on Thursday.
Just after 4 a.m., Dawson County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported hostage situation at the center. Patrol deputies encountered David Christopher Morris, of Dawsonville, holding a fixed-blade knife to a man later identified as his Lyft driver.
According to statements, Morris had been picked up in Hall County and, during transport to a Dawson County address, threatened the driver with a knife and demanded to be taken directly to the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office. Once they arrived at the facility, Morris entered the front lobby while still holding the driver at knife point and demanded to speak with Sheriff Johnson.
After SWAT deputies responded and established a secure perimeter, Sheriff Johnson arrived and engaged directly with the suspect. After a period of communication, Morris released the hostage and surrendered the weapon without further incident.
“We’re grateful this situation ended without further harm to the victim, our deputies, or the suspect,” Public Information Officer Sergeant Blackstock said. “It is an honor to work for a strong leader who leads calmly by example, even in the face of danger. I also want to thank our detention staff, 911 operators, criminal investigators, SWAT team, and all responding deputies for their quick thinking and steady response.
“Situations like this remind us that every role in this agency matters — and it’s because of that teamwork that we were able to bring this to a safe conclusion.”
The Lyft driver sustained minor injuries and was treated by Dawson County Fire and Emergency Services. Morris was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Dawson County Detention Center.
The case remains under investigation. Additional details, including potential charges, will be released as they become available.
