In a disturbing turn of events that has rocked the small town of Climax, Georgia, Mayor Joseph Kelly has been arrested on two counts of child molestation. The allegations against the elected official are severe while his wife Natalie Kelly faces separate charges of second-degree cruelty to children. How will these dual arrests affect Kelly’s career as Mayor and High School teacher?
Mayor and Wife Both Facing Serious Charges
Joseph Kelly, who has served as the mayor of Climax, Georgia since January 13, 2020, was arrested on two counts of child molestation involving multiple minors. His wife, Natalie Kelly, 44, was simultaneously arrested and charged with two counts of cruelty to children in the second degree.
The couple was processed through the justice system with Mayor Kelly released on a $55,400 bond while his wife was released on an $11,400 bond. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation became involved after the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office requested their assistance with the sensitive case.
Mayor of Climax and wife arrested on child molestation and cruelty charges. Joseph Kelly is charged with 2x Child Molestation and 44yo Natalie Kelly is charged with 2x Cruelty to Children. The alleged acts involved multiple minors.
Joseph is also employed by the Decatur County… pic.twitter.com/jM3sgOFWi7
— N' Cuffs (@NCuffs1) June 1, 2025
Education Role Raises Additional Concerns
Beyond his role as mayor, Joseph Kelly is employed as a math teacher at Bainbridge High School within the Decatur County School District. His position of authority over children in both his political and educational roles has heightened community concerns about the allegations.
Authorities have stated, “At this time, there is no indication that the alleged acts are related to his employment.” However, questions remain about Kelly’s current employment status as the school district navigates this challenging situation.
A GA mayor and his wife were arrested Saturday after being accused of crimes against children.
Joseph Kelly, mayor of Climax, is charged with two counts of child molestation. His wife, Natalie, faces two counts of second-degree cruelty to children.
📸- City of Climax GA pic.twitter.com/OqEE23dzs8
— Everything Georgia (@GAFollowers) June 2, 2025
Investigation Continues as Community Reacts
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is actively pursuing the case, examining evidence, and interviewing potential witnesses related to the allegations. The small town of Climax, with a population of approximately 300 residents, is grappling with the shocking allegations against its elected leader.
Both investigations into the mayor’s child molestation charges and his wife’s child cruelty allegations remain ongoing. The case has drawn significant attention to the small Georgia community as residents await more details about the serious allegations facing their public officials.