Former Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman found dead, source says

Death investigation at former police chief's home

The GBI is investigating the death of former Braselton Police Chief Michael Stefan after his body was found Friday in a home on East Lake Drive, according to sources.

BRASELTON, Ga. - A body was found at a home on East Lake Drive in Braselton on Friday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed.

What we know:

Around 4 p.m. Friday, SKYFOX 5 flew over the scene near the Municipal Complex. Aerial footage showed crime scene tape surrounding a residence and a GBI forensics van parked out front.

A source tells FOX 5 Atlanta that former Police Chief Michael Steffman was found dead inside the house.

Jackson County records show Braselton Town Home Properties owns the house.

A source confirms Steffman was renting it.

What they're saying:

Neighbors say the news is disturbing for the quiet community. Erin Jones, who lives around the corner, said the discovery is "not the most settling thing" and "pretty shocking". Another neighbor, Jennie Pittman, described Steffman as "really quiet" and said she would wave to him while they walked their dogs.

What we don't know:

Authorities have not officially confirmed the identity of the person found in the home or the cause of death. It is also unclear if any foul play is suspected at this time. FOX 5 reached out to the City of Braselton and the police department for comment but is waiting for a response.

The backstory:

Steffman retired from the police department last November. His departure followed an arrest when he was accused of stalking, harassing communications, and multiple counts of misuse of automated license-plate readers. 

These charges came after a months-long investigation by the GBI. Steffman was also facing a charge of violation of his oath of office at the time of his death.