EATONTON, Ga. — The Putnam County Sheriff's Office is investigating an Eatonton police officer whose wife allegedly killed herself in front of him.
One reason that investigators are looking closely at Michael Perrault's story: He was arrested just six days earlier and charged with domestic battery.
Sheriff Howard Sills says they're investigating the death of Amanda Perrault, 44, as suspicious.
Meanwhile, Perrault, who's been an Eatonton officer for just over a year, is on leave during the investigation.
Sills says Perrault was arrested Jan. 28 at the couple's home at 133 Long Island Drive.
He says Perrault was charged with simple battery on his wife. He was also charged with third-degree child cruelty, because his 8-year-old daughter was present.
Perrault was released on a $1,500 bond the next day.
On Monday, Perrault called the sheriff's office and reported that his wife had killed herself. He said she was upset about their marriage problems.
Sills said deputies found Amanda Perrault dead in their bedroom.
He said they're still investigating a case he called both "strange' and "awkward."
Sills said, "Because of the evidence and the circumstances that we've seen so far, we're suspicious of it."
WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE READING
STAY ALERT | Download our FREE app now to receive breaking news and weather alerts. You can find the app on the Apple Store and Google Play.
STAY UPDATED | Click here to subscribe to our Midday Minute newsletter and receive the latest headlines and information in your inbox every day.
Have a news tip? Email news@13wmaz.com, or visit our Facebook page.