The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has filed additional charges against Chris Johnson as part of the ongoing case involving Johnson Funeral Home. Johnson now faces:
- One count of Violation of Vital Records Registration
- One count of Felony Theft by Taking
- Seven counts of Misdemeanor Theft by Taking
- Three counts of Felony Theft by Deception
- Thirteen counts of Misdemeanor Theft by Deception
- Thirteen counts of First-Degree Forgery
This case began on October 26, 2024, when deputies discovered 18 bodies in varying stages of decomposition at Johnson Funeral Home. Since then, all remains have been identified and families notified. Investigators also uncovered irregularities involving insurance fraud, falsified records, and mishandling of cremains.
Johnson has remained in custody at the Coffee County Jail. James A. Sirmans of Fitzgerald was also arrested in December 2024 for his role in related insurance fraud.
The GBI, with assistance from the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and local law enforcement, continues to investigate. The case will be turned over to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office at (912) 384-4227, the GBI Douglas Office at (912) 389-4103, or submit tips at gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online.