AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – On Saturday, October 18th, around 3:56 p.m., deputies with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office captured a wanted fugitive following foot chase and search in a swamp off the 5000 block of Mike Padgett Highway.
While patrolling the area, deputies noticed man matching the description of a wanted fugitive walking along the shoulder near the 5000 block Mike Padgett Highway.
Upon confirming the individual’s identity as Robbie Newton, Deputies attempted to make contact.
Newton immediately took off, jumping a guardrail and entering a nearby swamp where he tried to hide in thick vegetation approximately 25–30 yards from the roadway.
A perimeter was quickly established as additional deputies responded to assist. After giving multiple loud verbal commands for Newton to surrender, Deputy Hawkins and his K-9 partner, Roy, entered the swamp to locate the suspect.
After tracking approximately 15 yards through mud and water, K-9 Roy located Newton, who refused to show his hands when ordered. K-9 Roy was deployed and made contact with Newton’s right leg, resulting in two minor cuts. The suspect stopped running and gave up.
He was taken into custody, evaluated by EMS at the scene, and arrested on multiple outstanding felony warrants.
Sheriff Eugene Brantley praised the deputies and K-9 team for their professionalism, dedication, and teamwork during the incident.
“Our deputies did an outstanding job using sound tactics and great restraint to bring this situation to a safe conclusion,” said Sheriff Brantley. “Our K-9s continue to prove themselves as invaluable members of this agency. We now have K-9s assigned to both Crime Suppression Teams and available 24/7 with Road Patrol, ensuring immediate response and enhanced safety for our community.”
