12/17/2024
A grand jury has issued a true bill of indictment against District Attorney Christopher Robert Stanford, charging him with reckless endangerment, a Class C felony. Stanford turned himself in to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office this morning and posted a $10,000 bond.
The charge stems from an incident last month in Smithville during the pursuit of a triple murder suspect. Stanford fired his handgun, claiming self-defense as a vehicle driven by Hannah Rose accelerated toward him and others. However, evidence shows the bullet struck a home where a mother and three children were present, placing them in imminent danger. The grand jury determined there was no immediate threat to justify his actions, and evidence suggests Stanford fired recklessly without aiming. Video reportedly contradicts his account.
This series of events began on November 20, when police discovered the bodies of William Piechocinski, Dana Ramsden, and Otis Hawks II. Suspects Jessica Root and Caleb Brookins were later apprehended and charged with three counts of criminal homicide. Hannah Rose was charged with felony evading arrest and aggravated assault.
Stanford is scheduled to appear in court on January 7.
