Wanted Suspect Dalton Bell Turns Himself in to Franklin County Sheriff

The suspect wanted by both Franklin County and Royston Police is now behind bars facing multiple charges.

According to Royston Assistant Police Chief Brooks Moorehead Dalton Bell turned himself in to the Franklin County Sheriff’s office last Friday evening.

Bell was wanted in both Royston and Franklin County.

Royston Police Chief Donnie Boleman said on the night of Saturday, January 13, 19-year-old Bell allegedly stole a vehicle.

From there, Franklin County Sheriff Steve Thomas said Bell then allegedly drove to the home of his girlfriend where he threatened to kill her and her girlfriend.

Thomas said one of his deputies was called to the scene and tried to speak to Bell but he ran behind his girlfriend’s house.

As the deputy continued to try and speak to Bell, he allegedly fired four gunshots and then fled.

The deputy did not return fire and was not hit. No one else was injured, the Sheriff said in a statement.

At that point, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Royston Police, Franklin and Hart County Sheriff’s offices, GSP, and the DNR began an all-out manhunt for Bell but were unsuccessful in finding him.

A lookout was placed in Franklin, Hart, and Stephens counties but according to Sheriff Thomas, Bell turned himself Friday evening without incident.

In Franklin County, Bell is charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, two counts of terroristic threats and acts, and reckless conduct.

In Royston Bell faces auto theft charges.

Bell remains in the Franklin County jail.