Three Georgia deputies face murder charges in tasing death

(L-R: Deputies Rhett Scott and Michael Howell, Sergeant Lee Copeland)  Photo Courtesy: WJBF TV

Credit: Courtesy WJBF-TV

Credit: Courtesy WJBF-TV

(L-R: Deputies Rhett Scott and Michael Howell, Sergeant Lee Copeland) Photo Courtesy: WJBF TV

A prosecutor announced Friday he will seek felony murder charges against three Washington County sheriffs deputies for their role in the tasing death of a 58-year-old man reportedly “acting suspiciously.”

The decision comes after the GBI wrapped up its investigation of the death of Euree Lee Martin, killed July 7 while walking along Deepstep Road in Sandersville, about 120 miles southeast of Atlanta. District Attorney Hayward Altman said there’s been no evidence presented that Martin was breaking any laws at the time he encountered police.

Deputies Michael Howell, Henry Copeland and Rhett Scott were also fired Friday by Washington County’s sheriff. Their case will go before a grand jury on Dec. 19.

Euree Lee Martin is shown in this undated photo. Photo Courtesy WJBF-TV

Credit: Courtesy WJBF-TV

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Credit: Courtesy WJBF-TV

Altman said he will pursue felony murder, involuntary manslaughter, false imprisonment, aggravated assault, simple battery and misconduct charges against the three former lawmen.