District Attorney Keith Higgins announced today that he would not pursue a
criminal prosecution of the officers involved in an incident that resulted in the death of Latoya
James during the execution of a narcotics search warrant in Woodbine.
On May 4, 2021, at approximately 04:45am, Camden County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Drug Task
Force officers were at residential address on US HWY 17 in Woodbine, GA, for the purpose of
executing a narcotics search warrant. Following entry of the residence, a use of force incident
occurred involving CCSO Deputy Downy Casey, CCSO Deputy Michael Blaquiere, and Varshan
Brown. During the incident, Brown and another occupant of the residence, Latoya James,
received gunshot wounds, and James was pronounced dead at the scene.
DA Higgins met privately with members of the family and with select community leaders today
to announce his decision. DA Higgins expressed his condolences to the family of Latoya James,
stating, “While any loss of life is always tragic, the officers’ use of force in this instance was
justified to protect their lives.”
Since the State intends to pursue criminal charges against Varshan Brown, a redacted copy of
the investigative case file will not be provided to the family or posted on the District Attorney’s
Office website.
Members of the media with further questions may contact the Brunswick Judicial Circuit District
Attorney’s Office at 912-554-7200
