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Autopsy pending for Washington County sheriff

The GBI says they're investigating the cause of death for Sheriff Thomas Smith, and no foul play is suspected at this point

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ga. — A Central Georgia sheriff has passed away, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is looking into the cause.

Baldwin County Sheriff Bill Massee and the Washington County Sheriff's Office both confirmed Sheriff Thomas Smith's death Saturday morning.

In an emailed statement, Director of the Office of Public Affairs for the GBI Nelly Miles says they were requested by the Washington County Sheriff's Office to investigate his death.

Miles says at this point, no foul play is suspected, but an autopsy to determine the official cause of death is scheduled for Monday.

According to the Washington County Sheriff's Office website, Smith was a native of Washington County and a former president of the Georgia Sheriff's Association.

He earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Georgia Southern University in 1984, and a masters in public administration from Columbus State University in 2004. During his time as sheriff, Smith organized the county's first K9 unit and a neighborhood watch program as well.

The Sandersville Police Department expressed their condolences in a Facebook post Saturday, thanking Smith for his years of 'service and dedication.'

"There will forever be a void in our law enforcement family," the post said.

Within the last four to five weeks, the SPD Uniform Patrol Officers ... and Crime Suppression Team members have arrested 5 individuals. These individuals have been charged with DUI drugs, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, and many other charges.

Miles says agents are conducting interviews, and the investigation is still active.

This is a developing story, 13WMAZ is working to get more details on the cause of death.

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