TOCCOA — Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley is recovering after being assaulted while responding to a domestic dispute Wednesday afternoon.
Shirley and other members of his department responded to 126 Ranick Drive in Toccoa about 2 p.m, Wednesday after receiving a call alleging an ongoing domestic problem.
Shirley was the first to arrive and immediately made contact with a male and a female who were on scene.
"It was while talking to them Sheriff Shirley was attacked," said Chief Deputy Andy Myers. "The sheriff received injuries to the face after being suddenly and unexpectedly struck. He was subsequently treated at Stephens County Hospital and released."
John Matthew Williams, 36, of Ranick Drive was arrested and charged with aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and felony obstruction of an officer.
Rebecca Faith Heaton, 29, of Ranick Drive was arrested and charged with felony obstruction of an officer.
Both were take to the Stephens County Jail, where they are being held pending a bond hearing.
"This is something that is becoming far too common across our nation and even in our community," Myers said. "Law enforcement officers performing their duties are becoming the target of attacks by aggressive and uncontrollable people."
Myers said despite his injuries Shirley is in good spirits and added they are hopeful for a quick and full recovery.
The domestic dispute was totally unrelated to Wednesday's drug arrests in and around Stephens County, Myers said.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2016/2/370879/stephens-county-sheriff-assaulted-responding-to-domestic-dispute