Atlanta Cop Put On Administrative Leave After Helping Murder Suspect Escape

Atlanta Police Officer Tommy Williams

ATLANTA — An Atlanta police officer is facing charges after prosecutors say he helped a murder suspect escape custody.

Officer Tommy Williams, a three-year veteran, was arrested on May 21 after accusations that he helped Jabri Mathis, 20, escape, and that he lied to other officers about seeing him flee. Williams is facing felony charges that include violation of oath of public office, obstruction of justice, and hindering apprehension or punishment.

Police say Mathis and Officer Williams are friends, and were together when Mathis escaped on May 14. Williams was given an order to be on the lookout for Mathis at least a month before the escape, and knew he was wanted.

Jabri Mathis, multiple murder suspect

During a pursuit by police officers, Mathis reportedly ran inside a residence and escaped out the back after jumping a fence. Mathis is charged with two counts of murder, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Williams was placed on administrative leave and is scheduled for an emergency hearing with Atlanta Police Chief George Turner.

The department issued the following statement:

“The Atlanta Police Department takes these allegations very seriously. Chief Turner has always prioritized officer accountability and honesty, and will continue to take decisive action when necessary to hold his officers to the highest standard.”