Charges against Johnny Folsom are dismissed

Dougherty County judicial officials have decided, after more than a month since the Sept. 25 arrest of Cairo High School Director of Bands Johnny Folsom, to dismiss the charges against the band leader.
The Messenger learned this week that the Doughtery County District Attorney’s Office has decided to dismiss the charge of simple battery against a police officer that Folsom was charged with the night of Friday, Sept. 25.
The CHS band director was arrested by Dougherty County School System Police following an altercation between Folsom and a gatekeeper at Albany’s Hugh Mills Stadium prior to the Syrupmaker football game against the Monroe Tornados.
When Folsom and two of his assistant directors attempted to enter the stadium, the gatekeeper instructed the two assistants to remain with the other band chaperones and to enter after a headcount of band students was completed. Dougherty County allows only one chaperone for every 10 students to enter the gates at Hugh Mills stadium without a paid ticket.
Folsom informed the gatekeeper that the twosome were his assistants and attempted to pass into the stadium when he was arrested by school system police officers.
He was booked and held in custody at the Doughtery County jail for a short time until his release was negotiated by Grady County State Court Judge Bill Bass Sr.
Director Folsom has not commented publicly on the incident, but told The Messenger this week he is hoping to be able to make a public announcement in the very near future.
“Betty Ann and I want to thank the many people in Cairo and Grady County who have stood by us during this difficult time in our lives. We have been blessed by your unwavering support and prayers,” Folsom said.