Barrow County jailer arrested for allegedly spiking inmate food

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested and charged 50-year-old Lolita Lightner, a former jailer at the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, with Cruelty to Inmates and Violation of Oath of Office. Lightner, who resides in Winder, was involved in an incident where several Barrow County Detention Center inmates were exposed to a substance believed to be pepper spray, which was reportedly added to their food.

Sheriff Jud Smith requested the GBI’s assistance with the investigation on July 21, 2024. Lightner, who was responsible for the care of the inmates, was taken into custody without incident and booked into the jail where she once worked.

At this stage in the investigation, agents suspect that Lightner acted alone.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office at 770-307-3080 (for anonymous tips) or the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Athens, GA at 706-552-2309.