A dangerous hostage situation inside the Dawson County Law Enforcement Center was peacefully resolved early Thursday morning thanks to the calm intervention of Sheriff Jeff Johnson. The sheriff spoke directly with the suspect, who later surrendered without anyone being seriously hurt.
According to initial reports released by the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began just after 4:00 a.m. on June 5, when deputies responded to a report of a man holding someone at knifepoint in the lobby of the Law Enforcement Center. Upon arrival, deputies encountered David Christopher Morris, of Dawsonville, holding a fixed-blade knife to a man later identified as his Lyft driver.
Authorities say Morris had requested a ride from Hall County to Dawson County, but during the trip, he reportedly became suspicious of the driver’s route. According to statements from officials released the following day, Morris became paranoid and demanded the driver take him to the sheriff’s office. It was at this point, law enforcement says, the kidnapping occurred.
Once at the sheriff’s office, Morris continued to threaten the driver and demanded to speak with Sheriff Johnson. Patrol deputies quickly secured the lobby, and SWAT established a perimeter. Sheriff Johnson arrived soon after and engaged Morris in conversation. According to a June 6 release from the Sheriff’s Office, after a period of dialogue, Morris released the hostage, surrendered the weapon, and was taken into custody without further incident.
The victim sustained minor injuries and was treated on scene by Dawson County Fire and EMS. In a public statement, the Sheriff’s Office said, “Our hearts go out to the victim, who experienced an extremely traumatic situation. We remain in contact and continue to offer any assistance needed.”
Following Morris’s arrest, Sheriff Johnson later sat down with the suspect, fulfilling a promise made during the crisis to hear his side of the story. Officials say Morris is known to the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office from previous encounters.
Morris has now been officially charged with Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, False Imprisonment, Obstruction of Officer, and Possession of a Firearm or Knife During the Commission of a Crime.
Due to the ongoing investigation, the Sheriff’s Office states that it cannot release further details at this time.
“We’re grateful this situation ended without further harm to the victim, our deputies, or the suspect,” said Sergeant Blackstock, a spokesperson for the department. “It’s an honor to work for a leader who remains calm under pressure and leads by example.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, dial 988 to speak with a trained professional.
More information will be shared as the case develops.
