Jury Trial Set for Couple Charged in Sheriff Assault Case

A jury trial is set for next week in Stephens County Superior Court for a couple accused of assaulting Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley.

It happened February 17, 2016 at a residence on Skyview Lane.

According to authorities, Sheriff Shirley was the first to respond to the home after receiving a 911 call regarding a domestic dispute.

As the Sheriff attempted to speak with both parties, the male suspect, identified as 37-year old John Matthew Williams, attacked him.

Later, the Sheriff told WNEG News that he was hit in the right eye by Williams and the force of the blow knocked him out.

As he fell, Shirley said he hit a piece of an object which cracked his upper and lower front teeth.

The sheriff said doctors at the hospital diagnosed him with a mild concussion, orbital fractures, a nasal fracture, and hemorrhage inside the right eye.

He said he also suffered lacerations and double vision.

A follow-up examination by an eye specialist in Athens revealed no permanent eye damage.

Williams was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Aggravated Battery, and Felony Obstruction of an Officer.

Also arrested at the scene was 30-year-old Rebecca Faith Heaton who lived with Matthews.

Heaton was also charged with Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Aggravated Battery, and Felony Obstruction of an Officer.

Williams eventually bonded out of jail, but Heaton is being held in the Stephens County Jail.