The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced on May 19 the arrest of Chasen Gipson, Wendi Gipson, and William Gipson from Carnesville, Georgia, in connection with a child abuse investigation in Franklin County. William Gipson, who was an investigator with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, was terminated from his position following his arrest.
The GBI said that Chasen Gipson, age 18, faces charges including Attempted Creation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), Invasion of Privacy, and Child Molestation. Wendi Gipson, age 54, has been charged with second degree cruelty to children. William Gipson, age 52, is charged with tampering with evidence and second degree cruelty to children.
According to the GBI statement, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the agency on May 11 for a child abuse investigation. The arrests were made on May 18 as a result of this joint effort.
All three individuals were booked into Franklin County Jail. The GBI stated that “this investigation is active and ongoing.” Authorities encourage anyone with information about the case to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Athens at (706) 552-2309 or submit anonymous tips online or through their mobile app.
The agency reported that once its investigation is complete it will provide findings to the Northern Judicial District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
