GBI Announces Arrest in 16-Year-Old Cold Case Death of Sandra Robinson in Coffee County

The GBI has arrested and charged Willie James Jr., age 58, of Wayne County, GA, with Malice Murder, Felony Murder, and Aggravated Assault in connection to the death of Sandra Robinson that occurred almost 16 years ago.

On March 17, 2010, the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Douglas, Georgia was requested by the Douglas Police Department to assist with a death investigation at the Prepaid Superstore on S Madison Avenue in Douglas, Georgia. Sandra Robinson, age 32 at the time, was working at the phone store when she was stabbed and killed. James was an associate of Robinson and could often be found at the store. As a result of continued testing, James was able to be linked to the crime through forensic evidence.

Screenshot

Over the years, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Douglas Police Department diligently followed every lead and remained unwavering in their commitment to finding the truth surrounding the death of Robinson. This arrest represents the culmination of those continued efforts. This successful investigation is an example of the importance of cooperation and collaboration between different GBI units, local law enforcement agencies, forensic scientists, and prosecutors.

On March 2, 2026, James was taken into custody and booked into the Coffee County Jail.

The GBI would also like to thank the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, Waycross Police Department, Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, and Valdosta Police Department for their assistance during the investigation and in locating and arresting James.

This investigation is still active and ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Douglas at (912) 389-4103. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Watch the news conference here: https://tinyurl.com/mr48t9x9