Illegal Immigration Charges Against Deputy Dropped

Illegal immigration charges against a Henry County reserve arrested earlier this month have been dropped.  Kevin Dwight Venhuis, 46, was taken into custody Department of Homeland Security agents.

A ruling issued by U.S. Magistrate Wallace Capel, Jr. dismisses the complaint against Venhuis thus making moot a preliminary hearing that had been set for Thursday.

 "It's just wrong," said Sheriff Will Maddox shortly after Venhuis was taken into custody.  "He's been here 25 years-- working, owning businesses, and paying taxes."  The sheriff said Venhuis furnished computers to his office because adequate funds were not available to purchase them.

Maddox said he was aware there was an immigration issue involving Venhuis but claims every attempt has been made to resolve it.  "We've been to the immigration office in Atlanta, met with (former Attorney General) Troy King, and Venhuis has even hired an immigration attorney." The dismissal of illegal immigration charges against Venhuis were dropped at the request of federal prosecutors.

Federal documents show Venhuis was charged after a tip that he was in this country illegally. Those familiar with the case say he has been involved in a divorce and custody battle. He was freed on bond shortly after his arrest.