Sheriff Gropes TV Judge, Pleads Guilty, Resigns
A Georgia sheriff pleaded guilty Monday to groping TV Judge Glenda Hatchett, who said she was so stunned by the attack that she froze.
Bleckley County Sheriff Kristopher Coody was sentenced to a year on probation, a $500 fine, and 400 hours of community service. He also resigned from office.
Hatchett said the incident happened at a hotel bar during a law enforcement conference in January 2022. She said Coody grabbed her left breast and began squeezing and rubbing it.
“I froze in shock,” Hatchett said. “I couldn’t believe it was happening.”
Hatchett said she reported the incident to Cobb County authorities, who obtained a warrant for Coody’s arrest. He was arrested in February and pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of sexual battery.
Coody’s attorney said his client was “deeply remorseful” for his actions.
“He made a mistake, and he’s taking responsibility for it,” the attorney said.
Hatchett said she was glad that Coody had pleaded guilty and resigned from office.
“I hope this sends a message that this type of behavior will not be tolerated,” she said.
Hatchett is a former judge who starred in the courtroom reality shows “Judge Hatchett” and “The Verdict With Judge Hatchett.” She also represented the family of Philando Castile, a black driver who was shot dead by a Minnesota police officer in 2016.