MORGAN COUNTY, Ga. — Judge Glenda Hatchett, known for her television appearances, is facing a legal setback after halting a lawsuit against former Bleckley County Sheriff Kristopher Coody and the Georgia Sheriff’s Association. Following the dismissal of her case, a court has mandated that Hatchett cover the legal fees incurred by the association.
This week, Hatchett is scheduled to appear in court to address a ruling that deemed her case “without merit.” The dispute began in 2022 when Hatchett claimed she was sexually assaulted during a reception held by the Georgia Sheriff’s Association at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel.
Describing the aftermath of the incident, Hatchett remarked that even a strong individual like herself was profoundly impacted. Coody, who was implicated in the allegations, subsequently pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor sexual battery charge. He received a sentence that included 12 months of probation, a $500 fine, community service, and mandatory completion of an alcohol and drug treatment program. Following his plea, Coody resigned from his position as sheriff.
In her original lawsuit, Hatchett included the Georgia Sheriff’s Association, asserting negligence and liability in connection to the incident. However, she later withdrew her claims, expressing a desire to move past the ordeal. In response, the Georgia Sheriff’s Association sought to recover its legal costs through a motion for attorney’s fees.
In July, a Morgan County judge ruled in favor of the association, asserting that Hatchett’s claims lacked sufficient basis and allowing the organization to pursue compensation for its expenses.
Hatchett and representatives from the Georgia Sheriff’s Association are expected back in Morgan County on August 18 to discuss the court’s recent decision. As the case unfolds, it raises questions about responsibility and accountability within the law enforcement community.
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