Lamar County sergeant cleared after excessive force claim

LAMAR COUNTY, Ga. - Internal investigators with the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office said no policies were violated in regards to an incident caught on camera and shared on social media.

Lamar County Sheriff’s Sergeant Shannon Williamson could be seen on the video kicking a suspect as he arrived to help others officers. Investigators said it appears Williamson was trying to get the suspect, 30-year-old Caweisi Lavelle, flat on the ground to put both his arms into handcuffs.

The incident occurred last month outside Reliable Mart. The video quickly gained traction on social media, where many were outraged at what they perceived to be a case of excessive force.

The incident started inside Reliable Mart where a deputy, getting something to drink, recognized Lavelle who had an outstanding warrant for obstruction of an officer, aggravated assault, and other felony charges from another county.

Store video shows two officers first approaching Lavelle in a car then struggling to arrest him for about 45 seconds before back up was called in.

Sgt. Williamson, who arrived with other deputies, has never had any complaints filed against him. He was placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation.

Lavelle was booked into the Lamar County.

One of the two deputies involved in the first scuffle with Lavelle was treated and released from the hospital.

Despite the chatter on social media, the sheriff’s office said no one called them or came to the sheriff’s office to complain about the incident.

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