CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — A Habersham County Sheriff’s Office K9 team has been honored by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for its role in capturing the man accused of shooting a McCaysville police captain.
Deputy Holden Helcher and his K9 partner, Bane, received a letter of commendation from GBI Special Agent in Charge Ken Howard, who praised their work during the manhunt for Timothy Ramsey.
“Deputy Helcher and K9 Bane merit commendation for their contributions in the tracking and apprehension of the suspect in the shooting of McCaysville Police Department Captain Brantley Worley,” Howard wrote. “Their expertise and dedication were instrumental…their professionalism and commitment did not go unnoticed.”
According to the GBI, the Habersham team cleared multiple houses, barns, and wooded areas, creating what Howard described as a “safety net” for law enforcement officers. Their persistence forced the suspect from hiding, ultimately leading to Ramsey’s arrest.
Brothers’ gift brings Bane to Habersham
K9 Bane joined the sheriff’s office in 2024 thanks to a donation from United Logistics, a company founded by three Habersham brothers, Tyler, Brett, and Cody Mixon. Bane’s training was provided by ADZ K9 in Oakwood, along with support from Sgt. Blake Forrester of HCSO and Hall County’s K9 unit.
Habersham County Sheriff’s Public Information Officer Rob Moore says the community has rallied behind Bane since his arrival. Just before Christmas 2024, Demorest resident Regina Patterson donated funds to equip him with a ballistic vest. More recently, a retired Florida firefighter made an anonymous donation to the sheriff’s K9 program.
Helcher and Bane are one of three active K9 teams serving Habersham County, alongside K9 Roxy with Lt. Eugene Kemp and K9 Zane with Sgt. Forrester.
Sheriff’s officials say community support continues to strengthen the program.
“We are grateful for our community partners and for residents who step forward to support our work. Together we can make a safer community,” the office said in a statement.
