ATLANTA – Today, State Representatives Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) and Sandra Scott (D-Rex) announce that they have formally submitted a letter to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association condemning the association’s decision to seek attorney’s fees from Judge Glenda Hatchett.
“This is not just a legal matter; it is a moral one,” said Rep. Davis. “We stand with the 11 sheriffs who are upholding the highest ideals of law enforcement by protecting the vulnerable and speaking out for justice.”
“No survivor should be punished for seeking justice, especially when the offender holds a position of authority,” said Rep. Schofield. “The Sheriffs’ Association must correct this immediately.”
“We call on the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association to withdraw this harmful claim and publicly reaffirm its commitment to survivors of sexual violence,” said Rep. Scott.
In their letter, the representatives call on the association to immediately withdraw its claim for attorney’s fees, issue a public statement reaffirming its support for survivors of sexual violence and adopt policies to ensure no future actions punish victims for seeking justice.
Reps. Davis, Schofield and Scott commended the 11 Georgia sheriffs who have publicly opposed the association’s actions.
The representatives’ letter also emphasizes that the pursuit of attorney’s fees against Judge Hatchett is incompatible with the principles of justice and accountability.
The representatives have pledged to continue working with survivors, advocacy organizations and law enforcement leaders who are committed to protecting victims and ensuring accountability at every level.
Reps. Davis, Scott and Schofield have provided their letter to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, which may be found here.
*Editor’s note: a photo of the representatives is included.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes a portion of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Health, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Industry and Labor and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
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