A Richmond County Sheriff’s deputy fired after an accusation arose that he had sex with a jail inmate was granted bond Friday, April 22.
Dearieus Fluellen, 23, had only worked at the sheriff’s department as a deputy jailer since August. He was fired last month after an investigation began into information that he had engaged in sex with a female inmate at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.
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Friday, Assistant District Attorney Ryne Cox said Fluellen is accused of having sex with an inmate on March 28. There is a question about whether force was involved, Cox said.
In Georgia, a person in a position of authority over another can be charged with felony sexual assault for engaging in sexual activity a personal in a subordinate position, regardless of consent.
Fluellen is charged with sexual assault and violation of oath by an officer.
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Cox said the district attorney’s office took no position on bond.
Defense attorney Keith Johnson noted Fluellen’s lack of any criminal history. He has served in the Army Reserves. He is married and expecting a child, Johnson said.
Judge John Flythe granted a $40,000 bond. He is not to have any contact with the victim in the case nor any witness, Flythe ordered.
Sandy Hodson is a staff reporter covering courts for The Augusta Press. Reach her at sandy@theaugustapress.com.
