Judge Dane Perkins says Bowens intentionally created a lack of personnel on a day inmates were due in court. Perkins says Bowens then claimed he didn't have enough workers to transport inmates safely. The Sheriff's office has 32 employees.

Bowens was sentenced to spend time in the Dougherty County Jail and pay a $500 fine after being found in contempt of court.

An attorney for Bowen says he will appeal.