Former Sheriff Perry Grogan was featured in 1990 by Newt Gingrich as an example of Republican governance for his success in building a new jail under the anticipated cost. Newt Gingrich called him a friend. Still he lost re-election in 1992. In 1996, he was campaigning to get his job back when he was indicted with six counts alleging child molestation.
According to the victim and her uncle, in 1989 and 1990, when she was 10 and 11 years old, he bathed with and fondled her. Her father, who considered Grogan a friend, killed himself when she told him what happened. Her uncle confirms that her father was upset and said he had to confront Grogan. He explained the girl came forward six years later because she was grown up now. Still, she was only 17 when she came forward.
Grogan claimed it was all political dirty tricks and newspaper coverage from The Atlantic Constitution spends a lot more ink on justification and defense than on the allegations of the victim. He continued to campaign even though he was indicted. Incredibly, the Atlanta Constitution reported it was likely to bring people out to vote for him who might have stayed home.
Grogan was convicted. He appealed and lost.
- Findlaw: Grogan v State
- Brady List: Perry Grogan
20 Oct 1996
19 Sept 1996
12 June 1997