Presumption of Innocence
In the United States, all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Investigation started: June, 2025
Originated from: Unknown
Lead Agency: Newnan Police Department
State & County: Georgia, Coweta County
Assisting Agencies: Newnan Police Department
Booking Agency: Newnan Police Department
Booked / Released: June 19, 2025 /
Charges:
Investigation Summary
Case Information
Court: Coweta County Superior Court
Case #: SUR2025000973
Filing Date: September 23, 2025
Charging Instrument: Indictment
Counts
Count 1 – Rape ( O.C.G.A. § 16-6-1 )
The Grand Jury aforesaid, in the name and behalf of the Citizens of the State of Georgia, charge and accuse ERNEST THOMAS HINES with the offense of Rape (O.C.G.A. 16-6-1) in that the said accused, in the State of Georgia and in the County of Coweta, on or about the 19th day of June, 2025, did have carnal knowledge of [ NCST Redacted ], a female, forcibly and against her will, contrary to the laws of the State of Georgia, the good order, peace and dignity thereof.
Count 2 – Terroristic Threats ( O.C.G.A. § 16-11-37(b) )
The Grand Jury aforesaid, in the name and behalf of the Citizens of the State of Georgia, charge and accuse ERNEST THOMAS HINES with the offense of Terroristic Threats (O.C.G.A. 16-ll-37(b)) in that the said accused, in the State of Georgia and in the County of Coweta, on or about the 19th day of June, 2025, did while suggesting the death of [ NCST Redacted ] and with the purpose of terrorizing said person, threaten to unlawfully kill [ NCST Redacted ], a crime of violence, contrary to the laws of the State of Georgia, the good order, peace and dignity thereof.
Updates
Oct 10th, 2025
Arraignment Date Set
Court documents show this case has been set for Arraignment on January 12th, 2026.
September 23rd, 2025
Grand Jury Indicts Ernest Thomas Hines
A Coweta County Grand Jury has returned a True Bill Indictment against Ernest Thomas Hines the following count.