Atlanta Unfiltered

Madison built a reputation as a tough guy over 24 years as Piedmont Circuit district attorney (Jackson, Banks and Barrow counties). He got caught billing Banks County for salary expenses that the state was already paying and helping his wife double-dip on two jobs in his office. He kept about $40,000 for himself, buying a $7,000 motorcycle, $2,400 in sailing lessons and other stuff.

The weekly Jackson Herald newspaper uncovered Madison’s activities in March 2007, leading to a GBI investigation. Madison pleaded guilty a year later to theft by taking, violation of his oath, conspiracy and four counts of making false statements. He is serving a six-year prison term.