State representative-elect charged with stealing drugs from Winder assisted living home residents

By Joe Johnson

State Representative-elect Danny Rampey (R-116) was arrested Thursday at a Winder assisted care facility after he was caught burglarizing a residence there and stealing drugs, according to the Barrow County Sheriff's Office.

Rampey, 67, of Statham committed the alleged offenses at Magnolia Estates of Winder, where he currently is manager, the sheriff's office said. He has held that position for 38 years.

Rampey was elected to the state house in November's general elections, and is scheduled to assume office on Jan. 9.

According to the sheriff's office, an investigation was initiated after deputies "became aware of suspicious activity involving missing medications within the last two weeks.

"Surveillance operations were used to assist in the collection of evidence of stolen medications."

The residence he burglarized on Thursday was not occupied at the time.

Rampey was charged with one count each of burglary, unauthorized distribution or possession of a controlled substance, and exploitation of elderly persons or disabled adults, the sheriff's office said.

The investigation into this case is continuing and additional charges may be forthcoming.

Rampey was being held at the Barrow County Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

If anyone has any information regarding this case, they may contact the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit at (770) 307-3080 ext. 3083.