Former Braselton Police Chief Arrested for Misusing Technology to Stalk and Harass, After Months of Allegations

BRASLETON, Ga.—Former Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman, 49, was arrested Wednesday by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation following a multi-month probe into allegations that he misused department technology to stalk and harass multiple individuals.

Steffman faces charges including Violation of Oath by a Public Officer, Stalking, Harassing Communications, and Misuse of Automated License Plate Readers. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office requested the investigation, which revealed Steffman allegedly tracked and intimidated multiple people using police resources, including Flock cameras.

Court records show that a temporary protective order (TPO) was filed against Steffman in August by a Jackson County woman, who claimed he tracked her location, followed her to a neighborhood, sent maps of her movements, and monitored her travel to Gas South Arena. Jackson County Superior Court Judge Ben Green denied the petition on Aug. 22, noting that while past conduct was concerning, there was insufficient evidence to support current allegations at that time. The petitioner was advised to report the conduct to the sheriff’s office.

Steffman had served with the Braselton Police Department since 2005 and was sworn in as chief earlier this year. Days before his resignation, the Town of Braselton honored him on Facebook for 20 years of service. Town Manager Jennifer Scott appointed Captain Zack Tiller as interim chief immediately after Steffman stepped down.

Steffman was taken into custody without incident, booked into the Jackson County Jail, and bonded out later Wednesday on $13,000.

Hours before the GBI’s announcement of the arrest, the Town of Braselton had already shared that Manager Jennifer Scott appointed Zack Tiller as interim chief, ensuring continuity in leadership. In a statement, Scott expressed the town’s disappointment over the circumstances surrounding Steffman’s arrest but emphasized that the legal process would proceed independently. “While we are disappointed by the circumstances and the charges, we will allow the legal process to play out,” Scott said. “At the same time, we appreciate the former chief’s years of service and focus on ensuring the safety of our citizens and maintaining the high standard of public service the community expects.”

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office initially requested the GBI investigation after concerns arose over Steffman’s alleged misuse of police technology to stalk and harass individuals. The GBI continues to investigate, and officials have not disclosed the number of alleged victims or additional specifics regarding the stalking and harassment accusations.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Athens at 706-552-2309 or submit tips anonymously online.