A convicted felon is still being sought after allegedly assaulting his wife in a violent outburst last week. The assault occurred on Wheeler Lake Road in Augusta when the suspect’s wife discovered he had been having an affair.
Billy Math Cowart III, 33, became enraged after his wife confronted him about the affair, authorities said. According to the victim, Cowart choked her and struck her repeatedly in the face and head. When she tried to escape, he allegedly slammed the door shut, continuing to strangle her until she was almost unable to breathe.
Cowart also damaged her phone and attempted to puncture her car’s tires. The victim was left with visible injuries, including swelling, a busted lip, and lacerations to her face. She was eventually able to escape and sought help.
Long History. Cowart is no stranger to law enforcement. A convicted felon with a criminal history dating back to 2009, Cowart has been involved in multiple criminal activities, including drug trafficking, weapons offenses, and theft.
In 2012, Cowart was convicted for manufacturing a controlled substance. His criminal activities continued, with arrests in 2016 for methamphetamine possession and firearms violations. During that arrest, Cowart was found with methamphetamine, firearms, and a large amount of drug paraphernalia, including digital scales and plastic bags.
In 2017, Cowart was once again caught in a traffic stop, this time alongside two others in a stolen vehicle. During the stop, officers discovered meth, a handgun, and oxycodone pills in the vehicle.
Cowart was found to be a convicted felon, which made possession of the firearms even more serious. Cowart’s criminal history includes multiple weapons charges, often found in the possession of firearms, including a Cobra .32 caliber handgun, a Beretta .22 short handgun, and a Ruger LCP .380 handgun, all of which were loaded.
In 2024, Cowart was indicted for five counts of felony theft by taking, in Columbia County, though he was never convicted.
The Search. Cowart is believed to be driving a white 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, which was shown in the wanted flyer issued by Richmond County authorities.
Cowart’s history of violence, drug use, and weapon offenses makes him a high-risk fugitive. Authorities have warned the public to avoid contact with him.
If you have any information regarding Cowart’s whereabouts, please contact Investigator Emerald Hambrick or any Violent Crimes Investigator with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office at (706) 821-1427 or (706) 821-1020.
