Cop Charged With Drug Trafficking, Bribery

CARTERSVILLE, GA -- A former officer with the Rome Police Department has been charged with trafficking drugs following a six-month investigation.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested Ernest Edward Cox, 39, a 15-year veteran of the force, and charged him with one count each of trafficking marijuana, violation of oath of office, tampering with evidence and bribery.

According to the GBI, Rome police reached out to the state in October after it received information about "alleged corruption" within its ranks. Rome Police Chief Denise McKinney specifically asked the GBI to conduct a criminal investigation into the actions of Cox, the agency said.

Monday's arrest of Cox comes on the heels of the GBI arresting 35-year-old Tyson Lamar Brown and Maverick Brown, 57, both of Rome, on charges of distributing and trafficking marijuana.

GBI spokesperson Nelly Miles said the arrests are connected, but added "no other details ready for release at this point."

Cox, who was fired from his position on Monday, is being held at the Floyd County Jail without bond.

This investigation is active and ongoing, and anyone with pertinent information is encouraged to contact the GBI Calhoun Office at 706-624-1424.

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