On Friday, October 17, 2025, deputies responded to a report of a violent home invasion involving an 85-year-old victim. Upon arrival, deputies found the victim suffering from visible injuries to his wrist, leg, and neck, with blood observed on the floor and surrounding items within the home.
The victim reported that he was attacked by a man later identified as Jonathan Tucker, who had previously performed yard work for him approximately one year ago. Earlier in the week, the victim stated he encountered Tucker at a local gas station, where Tucker allegedly demanded $600, claiming unpaid wages from prior work. The victim informed Tucker that he did not have the money.
According to the victim’s account, on the day of the incident, Tucker returned, knocked on the door, and then entered the residence, assaulting the elderly man inside. The victim later positively identified Tucker as his attacker from a photograph.
Following a thorough investigation by detectives of the Criminal Investigative Division and GBI agents, Tucker was located at another residence. Although Tucker denied knowing the victim and provided an alibi, evidence gathered from the crime scene and witness statements contradicted his claims. Based on the investigation, Tucker was apprehended on Monday, October 20, 2025, and transported to the Coffee County Jail without incident.
Tucker now faces multiple felony charges under Georgia law, including kidnapping with injury, home invasion in the 1st degree, aggravated assault, and felony theft by taking. As of October 22, 2025, Tucker now faces the following charges: elderly abuse, burglary, robbery, and aggravated battery.
If convicted on these charges, Tucker could face a potential sentence of life imprisonment, substantial fines, and other penalties as determined by the court.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation and additional information will be released as it becomes available. Sheriff Fred Cole thanks the GBI for their support in solving this case and it continues to highlight the collaborative efforts amongst agencies to solve crimes quickly.