Georgia police officer investigated after confronting male that used women’s restroom at library

A DeKalb County police officer is under investigation after confronting a transgender-identifying biological male who was using the women’s restroom at a public library.

The incident occurred on October 20 at the Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Library. According to Fox 5 Atlanta, Sarah Swinson, a frequent library visitor, was confronted by the officer after using the restroom.

“I use the restroom, the women’s restroom, like I have been for months, if not years,” Swinson said. "He says, ‘Excuse me, sir.’ So, misgendering me right away, just goes, 'But you're not a woman. That's obvious.'"

Swinson told the outlet that when he claimed to be a transgender woman, the officer replied, “This is a police matter. There are women and little girls in there and I have to protect them.”

"Finally, I just nodded, you know, and he walked off. And I was very thankful," Swinson said. Swinson later emailed library officials, prompting the library to file a complaint with the DeKalb County Police Department.

Guests at the library are permitted to use the restroom that matches their gender identity rather than biological sex, and Georgia law does not prohibit this practice. The department said its internal affairs unit is now investigating the incident. In a statement, police said the department "remains dedicated to treating all members of our community with dignity, respect, and professionalism."

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson called the incident a “teachable moment,” saying the county “strongly supports our LGBTQ+ community.”

“We embrace the right to express one’s sexual orientation and gender identity. This isolated incident has presented a teachable moment and an opportunity to review our policies and training, to ensure best practices,” Cochran-Johnson said. “As a result of the incident, we are reviewing our educational curriculum and laws to ensure our LGBTQ+ community is protected and feels welcomed in DeKalb County."