Former Detention Officer Faces Additional Charges

A former Habersham County Sheriff’s Office detention officer who was first arrested on Oct. 2, 2023, now faces additional charges. 

Alexander Wade Hardaway, 30, of Alto, was charged initially by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation with false statements and writings. 

New warrants obtained March 19 by the GBI charge Hardaway with improper sexual contact in the second degree when he, in his employment as a detention officer for the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a female inmate, and violation of oath by a public officer. 

Hardaway was released on bond from the Habersham County Detention Center on Friday, March 22. Hardaway’s employment with the sheriff’s office was terminated Friday, Sept. 29, due to policy violations. 

Sheriff Joey Terrell stated, “Any breach of trust or misconduct by my personnel will not be tolerated. The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office has cooperated fully with GBI investigators to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry into the matter and remains dedicated to its mission of serving and protecting the public with integrity and professionalism.”