RICHMOND COUNTY, Ga. () – A Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Deputy has been arrested following a domestic incident.

Authorities reported that deputies arrived at an apartment on Wrightsboro Road on Friday, July 18th, concerning a domestic dispute between a female victim and her boyfriend, identified as Deputy Montell Walton, who serves as a Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Deputy.

During the Criminal Investigative Division’s interview, it was discovered that Walton attempted to seize the victim’s phone during the altercation, pressing his elbow against her chest, which led to a noticeable red mark and breathing difficulties.

Authorities state that Walton admitted to taking the phone and tossing it within the apartment.

According to investigators, the female victim is 17 weeks pregnant and shares a one-year-old child with Walton.

Authorities say the victim was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and was listed in stable condition.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office stated that Walton, who has been employed with RCSO since June 2024, was arrested and charged with Simple Battery – Family Violence. At approximately 8:30 PM, Walton was immediately placed on non-paid administrative leave. Subsequently, he was transported to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.