According to a press release from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Thomas Lee Hicks, 30, of Waycross, Georgia is facing murder charges. Hicks was a juvenile correctional officer at Waycross Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC). He is being charged with one count of murder in the 2nd degree, two counts of cruelty to children in the 2nd degree, and one count of violation of oath of office.
The GBI's investigation reveal Hicks allowed the juveniles under his watch to participate in a fight game. The incident happened on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 around 9 a.m. The GBI was called in to investigate an unresponsive juvenile at the Waycross RYDC.
According to initial information, the juvenile was in the presence of a staff member and other juveniles when he lost consciousness. EMS was called in and the juvenile was transported to Memorial Health Hospital in Savannah for treatment, where they later died.
Hicks was arrested on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 and booked at the Ware County Jail.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Waycross RYDC at (404) 291-0208 or the GBI Region 4 Douglas Office at (912) 389-4103. You may also submit anonymous tips by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online with the GBI, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
