Jailer is fired

A Richmond County jailer who was fired last week remained in jail Monday facing several charges in connection with a fight with two other women, police said.

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Officiials said that Erica Barnes, 35, of the 3400 block of Cauthen Drive, was involved with a dispute with her roommate, Keasha Royal, 25, of the same address.

The incident started at about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at their home, Sheriff Ronnie Strength said.

After the two argued, Ms. Royal went to the home of Katrina Borum, 27, who lives in the same block, the sheriff said.

Later that morning, the sheriff said, Ms. Barnes followed Ms. Royal to the neighbor's house and "got into another argument" with Ms. Royal "over money owed her."

Ms. Barnes snatched Ms. Royal's wallet, cell phone and two gold chains from her neck, Sheriff Strength said.

He said Ms. Barnes also attacked Ms. Borum.

"She basically beat both of them up," Sheriff Strength said. "She bit Ms. Royal on the forehead."

Sheriff Strength said Ms. Barnes worked for his department "less than a year and was on probation." She was terminated after her arrest Wednesday, he said.

"We in law enforcement are no different than anyone else. We have to stay within the same guidelines as everyone else," the sheriff said.

Ms. Barnes faces charges of simple battery, burglary, family violence battery and theft by sudden snatch, Sheriff Strength said.

Reach Timothy Cox at (706) 823-3217 or tim.cox@augustachronicle.com.