This browser does not support the Video element.
Coweta grandfather sentenced for child molestation
A Coweta County grandfather has been sentenced to over 200 years in prison for child molestation.
COWETA COUNTY, Ga. - A 72-year-old Coweta County man will spend the rest of his life behind bars after being sentenced Monday to more than two centuries in prison for child sex crimes.
What we know:
Jefferson Thurmond was sentenced to life plus 200 years in prison following his conviction on 11 counts of crimes involving children. The charges included eight counts of child molestation.
The investigation into Thurmond began in 2024 when a woman now in her 20s reported abuse from more than 10 years ago. Investigators with the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office later uncovered evidence of crimes involving three victims, with some evidence dating back to the 1980s.
During the investigation, authorities found videos and photographs that corroborated the horrifying experiences of the three identified victims. Prosecutors said Thurmond gained the trust of parents to get access to children at his home.
The Coweta County prosecutor noted that Thurmond’s position of trust made it difficult for victims to come forward for years. Thurmond was 70 years old when the initial investigation began in 2024.
What's next:
Thurmond could face further legal action in Fayette County. In 2025, Peachtree City police filed their own charges following a parallel investigation into Thurmond’s activities.
That case is still pending as Thurmond begins his life sentence for the Coweta County convictions.
RELATED:
- Coweta County man, 70, arrested for child molestation; disturbing photos found
- New molestation charges against 70-year-old with alleged crimes dating back decades
The Source: The information in this story was gathered by FOX 5 reporter Doug Evans, who spoke with Coweta County prosecutors and reviewed court records and body camera footage following the sentencing of Jefferson Thurmond.