BURKE COUNTY, GA — A dispute between Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams and the county’s Board of Commissioners has escalated following a letter from the sheriff announcing his intent to file a lawsuit against the county. In the letter, sent on Wednesday, Sheriff Williams informed the commissioners of his plan to take legal action over what he claims is a consistent underfunding of his agency.

Williams alleges that the county has failed to provide adequate financial support for his office, resulting in a strain on resources and hindering the sheriff’s ability to effectively serve the community. In addition to the lawsuit, Williams is also seeking attorney fees for the legal counsel involved in the potential case.

The conflict highlights ongoing tensions between the sheriff’s office and county leadership, with funding for law enforcement agencies often becoming a contentious issue in local governments. Sheriff’s offices, which handle a wide range of responsibilities including law enforcement, jail operations, and security for courts, often contend that their needs are not fully reflected in county budgets.

The Burke County Board of Commissioners has yet to respond publicly to the sheriff’s notice of intent to sue. The dispute, if it goes to court, could have significant implications for both the sheriff’s office and the county government. As of now, it remains unclear whether negotiations between the two parties will take place before any legal proceedings begin.

Sheriff Williams’ letter has sparked conversation in the community, with some residents expressing support for the sheriff’s position, while others are closely watching how the county commissioners will address the claims. The outcome of this disagreement could set a precedent for future funding disputes between county law enforcement agencies and local governments across the state.

As the situation develops, both sides are expected to provide more details in the coming weeks.