Laurens County, GA Sheriff Larry Dean

05/19/2026

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office would like to help spread the word about an upcoming Church Security In-Service being presented by Captain Sid Harrison on June 7 at 10:00 AM at Olivet Baptist Church.

Over the past several months, Captain Harrison has provided this powerful and informative training to numerous congregations across our area. Due to the growing interest in church safety and security, Olivet Baptist Church has opened this opportunity to all area church leadership members.

This in-service is designed for churches that are currently exploring security teams, have already established teams, or have recently added new members who could benefit from safety, security, and legal guidance related to church protection ministries.

Topics will include:
• Church safety and security awareness
• Team preparedness and response
• Legal considerations and refresher information
• Best practices for church security teams

Please note that seating is limited, as Olivet Baptist Church will begin morning worship services at 10:00 AM.

We encourage any church leadership interested in strengthening the safety and preparedness of their congregation to attend.

Captain Sid Harrison
Laurens County Sheriff’s Office

05/14/2026

Ms. Bessie Harvill was truly one of a kind.

Several years ago, she made a cameo in one of our community engagement videos, this particular one being our lip sync video, and it’s a moment many still remember today. Ms. Bessie, the mother of Laurens County Commissioner Jimmy Rogers, was a staple in our community and someone who meant a great deal to so many people, including the Sheriff’s Office.

She was always willing to help, always willing to be part of something fun, and always showed up with a smile and a spirit people naturally gravitated toward. Ms. Bessie also played a big role in helping bring concerts and entertainment events in and out of Dublin through her work at the theater.

She was simply a wonderful lady who loved her community and the people in it.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during this difficult time. Ms. Bessie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

05/11/2026

One of my deputies, Justin Padgett, was arrested and charged with Domestic Violence and Cruelty to Children in the 3rd Degree, meaning a child was present during the incident.

Padgett was arrested, brought to jail, booked in, and bonded out the following morning. Post was notified immediately of the incident.

There were a couple of discrepancies in this case. Because of those discrepancies, Padgett was placed on administrative leave pending an internal affairs investigation. As of today, that investigation has been completed, and Padgett has been terminated.

I have been asked a couple of questions regarding this particular case. It was said that Padgett had been charged before. This was not true.

It was also said that Padgett was treated differently than another deputy by being placed on administrative leave instead of being terminated immediately because of race. This was also not true.

Padgett was placed on administrative leave due to the circumstances surrounding his case. Every incident is different and will always be dealt with as such.

I have lost three deputies due to domestic violence charges during my time as Sheriff. The other two were terminated the morning following their arrests due to the charges and circumstances involved. There were no discrepancies in those two cases, and both individuals were of different races.

A law enforcement officer is held to a higher standard, as they should be. However, I do ask that when posting negative comments about individuals who are arrested, please remember there are victims in these cases, as well as families and children involved.

05/10/2026

Today we honor the mothers of Laurens County and beyond.

Mothers are often the quiet strength behind our families and our communities. They are the first teachers, the protectors, the encouragers, and the steady voice during difficult times. Their sacrifices often go unseen, but their impact lasts a lifetime.

On this Mother’s Day, we want to recognize every mother, grandmother, and woman who has stepped into a motherly role for someone in need. Thank you for the love, guidance, and support you give each and every day.

We also remember those spending today missing their mothers or loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as well.

From myself and everyone at the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, we wish you a safe, blessed, and Happy Mother’s Day.

04/27/2026

❗️Scam Alert ❗️

🚨 SCAM ALERT 🚨

We’ve been made aware of fraudulent “court enforcement” notices circulating by text message and possibly mail.

These notices may appear official, but here are some clear warning signs:
❌ No name, address, or vehicle information listed
❌ Vague or multiple “violations” with no details
❌ Mismatched locations (example: Georgia vs. Missouri courts)
❌ Urgent threats demanding immediate payment
❌ QR codes or links to pay fines
❌ Sent via text message

⚠️ IMPORTANT:
Legitimate courts and law enforcement agencies WILL NOT:

* Send traffic violation notices by text message
* Ask you to pay fines through QR codes
* Threaten immediate license suspension without proper legal process

If you receive one of these:
✔️ DO NOT scan the QR code
✔️ DO NOT click any links
✔️ DO NOT send payment
✔️ Verify directly with your local court or law enforcement agency

If you’re unsure, contact your local Sheriff’s Office or Police Department before taking any action.

Help us spread the word and protect others from falling victim.

04/05/2026

Happy Easter yall! He is Risen!

03/27/2026

Over the past two weeks, we have had two deputies involved in vehicle accidents while serving our community.

In one incident, a deputy was working a crash on the interstate when his patrol vehicle was struck from behind. In the second, a deputy was hit when another driver pulled into his path of travel.

We are extremely thankful that both deputies, as well as the occupants of the other vehicles, were not injured.

These incidents serve as an important reminder to stay alert, obey traffic laws, and slow down—especially around emergency vehicles. Your attention on the roadway helps protect those who are out there working to protect you every day.

-Sheriff Larry Dean

03/14/2026

It’s a great SUPER SATURDAY in Dublin, Georgia! ☘️☘️☘️

03/13/2026

Congratulations to the East Laurens Lady Falcons on bringing home the State Championship! 🏀🏆

02/05/2026

Happy Thursday! Figured I’d jump on the bandwagon. What y’all think?