GA Seeking Death Penalty for Inmates who Killed Guards During Bus Escape
The two men accused of shooting and killing Georgia Department of Correctional officers before escaping from custody appeared in court on Wednesday morning in Putnam County. The state has said it will pursue the death penalty in the case.
If convicted of murdering two corrections officers last week, Ricky Dubose and Donnie Russell Rowe could be executed by the state of Georgia. (Photo:Screen shot from WGXA TV video)
The two men accused of shooting and killing Georgia Department of Correctional officers before escaping from custody appeared in court on Wednesday morning in Putnam County. The state has said it will pursue the death penalty in the case.
Baldwin State Prison inmates Donnie Russell Rowe and Ricky Dubose were captured near Murfreesboro, Tennessee last week.
Authorities say Rowe and Dubose shot and killed the two corrections officers on Highway 16 between Putnam and Sparta last Tuesday then escaped from the Georgia Prison bus on which they were being transported.
At the hearing, Judge Brenda Trammell first informed Dubose that he was being charged with two counts of murder for killing Christopher Monica and Curtis Billue, one count of motor vehicle hijacking and felony escape. He was also informed of his rights.
Judge Trammell then informed Rowe that he was also being charged with the murders of Monica and Billue, felony escape and motor vehicle hijacking. The judge also informed him of his rights, WGXA TV reports.
More Patrol
Streamlight to Showcase Newest Lighting Products at National Safety Council’s Safety Congress & Expo 2026
Streamlight will showcase its latest lights, including the Portable Scene Light III and the LiteBox 1Million, at the 2026 National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo.
Read More →
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games Set for Perth, Australia
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) will take place in Perth, Western Australia, from Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21, 2027.
Read More →
5.11 Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to Support #ForThe343
5.11 has joined the nationwide movement honoring the 343 New York City Fire Department firefighters lost on Sept. 11, 2001.
Read More →
Team Wendy Announces Title Sponsorship of the Jorge Pastore Foundation
Team Wendy’s 3-year partnership with the Jorge Pastore Foundation expands access to programs that strengthen those who serve.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Hosting 9/11 25th-Year Commemoration Ceremony
The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum is hosting a 9/11 25th Year Commemoration Ceremony on Sept. 11 at 4 p.m.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Announces June 2026 Officers of the Month
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) named 15 officers of the Chico Police Department (California) as the Officers of the Month for June 2026 for their roles in responding to an active-shooter incident at a public library.
Read More →
Team Wendy App Creates New Digital Hub for Helmet Owners
The Team Wendy Community App provides one location for warranty registration, size-fit tools, product updates, and community connection. For helmet owners, the new app creates a simpler path to the information and tools that matter most.
Read More →
PositionPTT & Pryme Combine Communication Technologies to Deliver Distracted Driving Compliance
Pryme Radio Accessories and hardware/software maker PositionPTT join forces to advance hands-free communications and ensure Department of Transportation compliance using an integrated system of push-to-talk platforms, devices, and audio equipment.
Read More →
Justice Department Releases $25M in Law Enforcement Grants & Resources
The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services has just released $25 million in new grant Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support law enforcement. The recently released NOFOs include the Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement Program and other grant programs.
Read More →
What Makes a Laptop Rugged or Fully Rugged?
What separates a rugged laptop from a fully rugged one? In this video, two Panasonic Connect experts explain the military testing, IP ratings, durability standards, and real-world features that help law enforcement officers rely on their computers in any environment.
Read More →