May 22, 2013
Members of Blakely's African American community led a march Wednesday demanding the resignation of Early County Sheriff Jimmie Murkerson.
Blakely residents held a prayer vigil at the Early County Courthouse. Followed by a mile-long march through the African American community to the Early County Jail.
Protestors demanded Sheriff Murkerson come out and face his accusers.
Residents say Sheriff Murkerson used inmates to work for him and his family and friends rewarding them with a day out of jail and a cold soft drink.
Fifteen allegations were brought against the sheriff, but no indictment was made. Some say Murkerson believes he's above the law, enacting his own form of terrorism.
After the march, they met at Greater Works Outreach Ministry to plan to march again on Wednesday, July 9. They will meet at the ministry at 3:45 p.m. and begin the march at 4 p.m. Protesters will finish up with a mass meeting at 7 p.m.
Several attempts to contact the sheriff were made by News 4, but he was unavailable for comment.
