Reps. Davis, Schofield and Scott condemn Georgia Sheriffs’ Association for seeking attorney fees from Judge Glenda Hatchett

ATLANTA – State Representatives Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta), and Sandra Scott (D-Rex) have formally submitted a letter to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association condemning its decision to seek attorney’s fees from Judge Glenda Hatchett.

Hatchett filed a sexual battery civil lawsuit in 2022 against former Bleley County Sheriff Christopher Cudy for an incident in which he groped her at a Georgia Sheriffs’ Association conference. Hatchett later dropped the suit after Cudy pleaded guilty to a sexual battery charge against her and resigned. 

However, After the sheriffs’ association was dismissed as a defendant, it filed a claim seeking attorney’s fees from Hatchett—a move the three state representatives say punishes her for seeking justice.

Reps. Davis, Schofield and Scott commended the 11 Georgia sheriffs who have publicly opposed the association’s actions.

“This is not just a legal matter; it is a moral one,” said Rep. Davis. “We stand with the 11 sheriffs who are upholding the highest ideals of law enforcement by protecting the vulnerable and speaking out for justice.”

“No survivor should be punished for seeking justice, especially when the offender holds a position of authority,” said Rep. Schofield. “The Sheriffs’ Association must correct this immediately.”

“We call on the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association to withdraw this harmful claim and publicly reaffirm its commitment to survivors of sexual violence,” said Rep. Scott.

In their letter, the representatives called on the association to immediately withdraw its claim for attorney’s fees, issue a public statement reaffirming its support for survivors of sexual violence and adopt policies to ensure no future actions punish victims for seeking justice.

The representatives’ letter also emphasizes that the pursuit of attorney’s fees against Judge Hatchett is incompatible with the principles of justice and accountability.

The representatives have pledged to continue working with survivors, advocacy organizations and law enforcement leaders who are committed to protecting victims and ensuring accountability at every level.

Reps. Davis, Scott and Schofield have provided their letter to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, which may be found here.