Arrest in Financial Exploitation and Neglect Case

Laswanda Smith, 50, Coffee County, GA

The Coffee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Laswanda Smith, 50, of Coffee County, on March 20, 2026, following a month-long investigation into the alleged financial exploitation and neglect of an adult resident.

Detectives determined that Smith, acting as the primary caretaker for the adult, used a portion of the individual’s income and benefits for personal and household expenses unrelated to his care. In addition, Smith failed to provide timely medical care, missed appointments, and delayed recommended rehabilitation services.

Smith was taken into custody and charged with:

    •    Neglect of an Adult (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-101)

    •    Exploitation of an Adult (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-102)

She was transported to the Coffee County Jail without incident.

The investigation was conducted by the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division. Anyone with information related to financial exploitation or suspected neglect of an adult is encouraged to contact the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office at (912) 384-4227 or submit a tip through the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office mobile application.