Georgia police chief who said he accidentally shot ex-wife while sleeping charged with misdemeanor

ATLANTA (AP) — A Georgia police chief who said he accidentally shot his ex-wife while they slept has been indicted on a misdemeanor reckless-conduct charge.

The grand jury's indictment was returned Wednesday against former Peachtree City Police Chief William McCollom.

McCollom called 911 early New Year's Day to report accidentally shooting his ex-wife, Margaret. The shooting left Margaret McCollom paralyzed below the waist.

Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Scott Ballard has said investigators found no evidence McCollom intended to harm her. However, the chief told investigators he drank alcohol and took medication to help him sleep. He had a loaded handgun under the sheets.

McCollom resigned from his job as police chief in March.

McCollom's defense attorney, Thomas Cook Jr., did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

>>> Click here to read an earlier story story about this case.