Crime & Safety
Cherokee County, GA Man Gets 12 Years for Threatening to Burn Ex
Canton, GA – A 27 year old Canton man will spend 12 years in prison after a domestic dispute involving his former girlfriend escalated into a frightening confrontation involving gasoline and a lighter
By Mason Reid · 2026-10-30T16:29:05.766Z
Canton, GA – A 27 year old Canton man will spend 12 years in prison after a domestic dispute involving his former girlfriend escalated into a frightening confrontation involving gasoline and a lighter, according to prosecutors.
According to Cherokee County District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway, Jesse Logan Ellis was sentenced Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, after entering a non negotiated guilty plea to aggravated assault with intent to murder, aggravated assault and false imprisonment.
The charges stemmed from a May 13 domestic dispute investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff 's Office.
Prosecutors said Ellis' former girlfriend had visited his home to retrieve her motorcycle helmet when he refused to let her leave. She eventually escaped by asking to use the bathroom, which was located in another building on the property.
The woman sought help from two acquaintances at a nearby residence, asking them to accompany her back to retrieve the helmet.
When they returned, prosecutors said Ellis expressed his love for the woman and insisted she could not end their relationship.
Authorities said Ellis then poured gasoline on himself, grabbed the woman in a bear hug and held a lighter.
The two acquaintances intervened, pulling the woman away, taking the lighter from Ellis and calling 911.
Assistant District Attorney Ashley Snow said responding deputies found the woman crying along the roadside, believing she could have been burned alive.
Superior Court Judge Shannon Wallace sentenced Ellis to 30 years, with the first 12 years in prison and the remainder on probation.
Probation conditions include no contact with the victim, participation in a family violence intervention program, evaluations and treatment, and surrendering weapons.
District Attorney Treadaway emphasized the dangers of domestic violence, particularly when victims attempt to leave abusive relationships.
Domestic violence assistance is available through the Cherokee Family Violence Center at 770 479 1703.