Gordon County, GA – Authorities say a 46-year-old Georgia man with a history of aggravated stalking is now facing attempted murder charges after allegedly setting a home on fire while a mother and her small child were inside. Both victims escaped, but deputies say it was a close call.
According to details shared in a report, investigators said the suspect had been stalking and harassing the woman for months before the alleged arson attack.
Attempted Murder and Arson Accusations
Deputies say Charles Battles, 46, is accused of going to the family’s home around 6 a.m. on Saturday, where he allegedly set the structure on fire and fled on foot. The Gordon County Sheriff’s Office stated in its release that the fire destroyed the home, and the victims “barely escaped with their lives.”
The sheriff’s office launched a manhunt throughout the weekend, ultimately locating Battles on Sunday. Officers say he was found at a private residence near Scottsville and taken into custody without incident.
History of Stalking and Previous Arrests
A key part of the investigation revolves around the suspect’s prior behavior. According to court documents referenced, Battles had already been arrested earlier this year on charges related to stalking the same victim.
In July, charging documents say he went to the woman’s home on Johnson Drive “for the purpose of harassing and intimidating” her. Records state that he caused more than $500 in damage after “climbing on top of the hood” of her vehicle.
“On or about the 18th day of July, 2025, [Battles] did with the purpose of terrorizing [the victim] threaten to commit aggravated assault,” the documents allege.
Battles pleaded guilty in October to aggravated stalking and was serving a probation sentence at the time of the alleged arson attack.
Evidence Recovered at the Scene
Investigators say they recovered “an abundance of evidence: physical, electronic, and testimonial” linking Battles to the fire. Detectives believe he fled on foot immediately after starting the blaze, prompting a widespread search.
Sheriff Mitch Ralston emphasized the urgency of the case in the department’s statement:
“It was important that this matter be resolved quickly given the nature and severity of these crimes. Everyone involved worked around the clock to bring this defendant in, and now he will be held accountable in our courts.”
Community Help and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities credited private citizens for assisting in the arrest, helping deputies pinpoint the residence where Battles was hiding. No additional suspects are being sought.
The current condition of the mother and child has not been released, but officials confirm both survived the fire. As the investigation continues, Battles faces multiple charges, including:
- Attempted murder
- Arson
- Aggravated stalking
- Other related offenses
The Dangers of Escalating Stalking Cases
Incidents like this highlight how stalking behavior can rapidly escalate into more dangerous actions. Law enforcement agencies encourage victims of harassment to report early warning signs, which may include:
- Repeated uninvited visits
- Damage to property
- Threatening or obsessive communication
Experts note that early intervention is crucial to preventing violence in cases involving prior domestic threats.
What Happens Next
Battles is expected to appear in Gordon County court where prosecutors will outline the full list of charges. The sheriff’s office says the case will move forward aggressively, given the risk posed to the victims.
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