Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson released the following statement just before 11:00 p.m. this evening.
Many of you are asking for an update on the case where Brian Ogle was assaulted. SPD investigators have met with the Talladega County District Attorney in attempt to obtain warrants on those we consider suspects. This is not a case that can be closed out like an episode of “Law and Order.” This is real life and a real crime takes time to do all of the work to make a rock solid case. SPD and the DA’s office wants a case that is solid. At this time, we are trying to tie up some loose ends that were seen by our prosecutors office. I can’t say how long this will take, but when those ends are tied, we will be making arrests in this case.
As far as this being a hate crime, and those wanting the FBI involved, the determination on that will come after arrests and it will happen if the DA sees that the “Hate Crime” enhancement applies and can be proven. One thing I can say about our DA’s office is that the attorneys along with Mr. Giddens are meticulous when it comes to their cases.
As far as the latest incident at the school today, those involved will be dealt with administratively by school officials and legal action will come when the child assaulted parents sign petitions on the offenders in juvenile court.
In closing, I ask all responsible adults to please stop the negative posts on social media. Our community will never come together as long as your posts are racially motivated.
Kelley B. Johnson
Chief of Police