On January 3, 2025, at approximately 4:45 P.M., Planters First Bank in Cordele contacted Crisp County Sheriff’s Office about a possible fraud. Upon arriving and speaking with personnel, it became clear that the bank had fallen victim to a significant criminal act. Shortly thereafter, Planters First Bank in Perry, Georgia, had also experienced a similar fraudulent incident.
Both agencies collaborated closely in response to these alarming events, meticulously comparing notes and reviewing available video footage from the banks and surrounding businesses. Their efforts led to the identification of a suspect vehicle.
On January 6, 2025, law enforcement agencies located the suspect vehicle at a motel in Clayton County, Georgia. Perry police officers and various law enforcement agencies executed search and arrest warrants at the motel. Four suspects were apprehended without incident. The suspects were also in possession of multiple stolen checks of individuals from the Birmingham, AL area.
The Crisp County Sheriff’s Office has charged the following individuals:
Cody Wayne Crowe, a 28-year-old male from Alabama, is charged with:
- 1 Count of Forgery 3rd Degree (Felony)
- 1 Count of Identity Fraud (Felony)
- 1 Count of Deposit Account Fraud (Felony)
- 1 Count of Printing/Executing/Negotiating Fictitious Checks (Felony)
- 1 Count of Theft by Deception (Felony)
- 1 Count of Forgery 1st Degree (Felony)
Brandi Lawley, a 37-year-old female from Alabama, is charged with:
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime of Theft by Deception
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime of Forgery 3rd Degree
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime Identity Fraud
George Walford Jr, a 24-year-old male from New York, is charged with:
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime of Theft by Deception
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime of Forgery 3rd Degree
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime Identity Fraud
- 1 Count of Felony Party to Crime of Forgery 1st Degree
- 1 Count of Felony Criminal Solicitation
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to local law enforcement, businesses, and community members for their swift action and collaboration in fighting fraud. Together, we are stronger in protecting against financial harm, which costs banks and businesses billions annually. At Planters First Bank, we remain committed to offering tools like Positive Pay, Card Management Fraud Alerts, Secure Payment options, and Online Security Center, which includes Free Community Fraud Prevention Resources to empower consumers and businesses to stay vigilant. Together, we can continue to stand firm against fraud and protect our community.” Eli Tinsley, President and CEO of Planters First Bank