Kelly, 38, also serves as an employee within the Decatur County School District.
Meanwhile, his wife, Natalie Kelly, 44, was arrested on two counts of second-degree cruelty to children.
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The investigation moved rapidly, resulting in arrests within just 24 hours.
Following their arrests, both suspects were booked into Decatur County Jail.
The GBI, which worked in coordination with the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office, released a statement:
“The Decatur County Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the GBI to investigate allegations that Joseph Kelly had sexual contact with multiple minors,” officials stated.
Authorities also addressed concerns about potential connections to Kelly’s employment within the school district.
“At this time, there is no indication that the alleged acts are related to his employment,” the GBI clarified in their official release.
The case will now proceed through the South Georgia Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution, while additional details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
The arrest rocked residents in Climax, Georgia, who expressed shock and betrayal.
One resident described the arrests as “a gut punch to our community.”
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Another neighbor said, “It’s horrifying to think someone in a position of leadership could be involved in something like this.”
Meanwhile, a local business owner expressed his disbelief, saying, “You think you know someone, and then this happens,” they explained. “It’s like the ground’s been pulled out from under us.”
Joseph Kelly held a position of significant trust as mayor, and his alleged actions have left residents questioning their ability to identify threats within their own leadership.
The charges against Natalie Kelly suggest she was aware of the abuse and took no protective action.
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A local pastor also spoke about the community’s response to the crisis.
“We’re a small town, and we rely on our leaders to set the standard,” the pastor said, encouraging residents to unite during this difficult period.
* Original Article:
Democrat Mayor and Wife Arrested in Disturbing Child Abuse Case in Georgia