22-year-old pleads guilty to malice murder

Erwin Vanegas | L.M.J.C. District Attorney’s Office

Erwin Vanegas, a 22-year-old male from Rossville, has pled guilty to Malice Murder for the murder of 71-year-old Robert White on December 5, 2024 in the Catoosa County Jail, the L.M.J.C. District Attorney’s Office says.

Vanegas’ conviction stems from an assault he committed against White while the two men were cellmates in the county jail, the L.M.J.C. District Attorney’s Office says.

They say Vanegas stomped repeatedly on White’s head while he laid in bed.

White was transported to the hospital and later passed away on January 18, 2025 from his injuries.

Chief Judge Brian M. House sentenced Vanegas to serve life in the Georgia Department of Corrections, according to the L.M.J.C. District Attorney’s Office.

They say after the service of 30 years, Vanegas may become eligible for parole.

 “Senior ADA Evans’ thorough preparation and diligent prosecution of this case ensured a conviction against Vanegas through a guilty plea in advance of his scheduled jury trial. This conviction sends a clear message that violence will not be tolerated in our jails-or anywhere else in our community. Our office remains committed to pursuing justice for every victim, regardless of where the crime occurs.”

– m Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman said.

The investigation was led by Lt. Todd Pitts of the Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office.