Photo Courtesy of Georgia Dept. of Corrections
Who Was Sidney Dorsey?
Sidney Dorsey once held one of the most respected positions in law enforcement in the state of Georgia. He made history in 1996 when he became the first Black sheriff elected in DeKalb County. For many, his win symbolized progress and hope. He had decades of experience, having worked as a police officer and later with the district attorney’s office. But behind the badge, a different story was brewing—one of arrogance, abuse of power, and ultimately, murder.
The 2000 Election That Changed Everything
By the year 2000, Dorsey was running for re-election. His challenger? A rising figure named Derwin Brown, a former police captain who campaigned on rooting out corruption in the sheriff’s department. Brown promised transparency and reform—exactly the opposite of what Dorsey was delivering. Voters responded to Brown’s honesty and vision. He defeated Dorsey in a landslide.
But what should have been a routine transition of power turned deadly.
A Cold-Blooded Ambush
On December 15, 2000, just days before he was scheduled to be sworn in, Derwin Brown was gunned down in his own driveway. He had just returned home from a day of work and holiday shopping. He was shot 12 times in front of his home in Lithonia, Georgia.
The murder shocked the state and devastated Brown’s family. Investigators immediately suspected the killing was politically motivated, and over time, all signs pointed to one man—Sidney Dorsey.
The Shocking Investigation
The investigation into Brown’s murder uncovered a disturbing plot orchestrated by Dorsey himself. Witnesses and co-conspirators eventually came forward, revealing that Dorsey had ordered the hit on Brown to prevent him from taking office and potentially exposing years of misconduct and corruption in the department.
Dorsey was accused of using his position to manipulate employees, steal resources, and abuse the powers entrusted to him. It wasn’t just about losing an election—it was about protecting secrets.
The Trial and Conviction
In 2002, Sidney Dorsey was put on trial for the murder of Derwin Brown. Prosecutors laid out the conspiracy, and multiple witnesses testified that Dorsey had ordered the killing. One of his former deputies, who was part of the murder plot, agreed to testify in exchange for a plea deal.
Dorsey was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The verdict brought a measure of justice, but the damage to the community and to public trust in law enforcement was already done.
The Legacy of Derwin Brown
Though his time as sheriff never officially began, Derwin Brown’s legacy lives on. He was remembered as a man of integrity, someone who genuinely wanted to make a difference in his county. His family went on to advocate for victims’ rights and speak out against corruption in public office.
Brown’s widow, Phyllis Brown, became a powerful voice for change and justice. She once said, “They silenced my husband’s voice, but they didn’t kill his message.” That message still resonates with many who remember the scandal and tragedy that rocked DeKalb County.
What Happened to Sidney Dorsey?
Dorsey remains incarcerated to this day. In a bizarre twist, he later confessed in a 2007 interview that he had, in fact, ordered the hit on Brown. His confession came years after his conviction and seemed to be an attempt at seeking redemption or at least closure. But for many, it was too little, too late.
Interesting Facts About the Case
– Derwin Brown was murdered just three days before taking office
– Dorsey’s confession was handwritten and delivered from prison in 2007
– The case was featured on true crime shows like Snapped and Dateline NBC
– Dorsey was known for his charisma and political clout before his downfall
– The murder was carried out by at least three people, all of whom were tied to Dorsey’s former department
Why This Case Still Matters
The Sidney Dorsey case is a cautionary tale about unchecked power and political corruption. It’s also a tragic reminder of what can happen when someone will do anything to hold onto power. For those who believe that law enforcement should be held to the highest standards, this case is a gut punch.
It also highlights the bravery of those who speak out, demand change, and fight for justice—even when it comes at a personal cost.
Final Thoughts
Sidney Dorsey could’ve gone down in history as a trailblazer, a man who broke barriers and made a difference. Instead, he will forever be remembered as a disgraced sheriff who chose murder over accountability. And while Derwin Brown’s life was cut short, his name remains synonymous with integrity, courage, and the fight against corruption.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
