2021

June 20, 2021
Public Facebook Exchange Between Kristin Ashley and Sarah Grace Patrick Source

• A public post appears on Kristin Ashley’s Facebook page, addressed to her son Donnie:

Kristin Ashley wrote:
“Donnie I’m coming to get you love I know you are so unhappy their. I hear you and I’m doing everything I can to make it happen. I promise you that son. Your father can’t beat you anymore.”

• Sarah Grace Patrick responded with two comments directed at her mother:

Sarah Grace Patrick wrote:
“Kristen you are a grown woman and this is the child that you put threw the dirt just to make yourself happy, commenting on my post and posting this is never gonna make me wanna go to your house again and shows how immature you are. Respectfully, grow up.” Source

She added:
“THE ONLY ONE THAT BEAT US WAS THE EX STEP DAD YOU GOT WITH AND HAD NO TIME TO RELISE IT CAUSE YOU WERE OUT DEALING. DADDY HAS NEVER LAID A HAND ON ME AND YOU NEED TO STOP BRAINWASHING DONNIE AND IT DOESENT WORK ANYMORE WITH ME.”  Source

Kristin Ashley replied:
“Maybe you need to call me bc we some therapy. For real. Sad this is the only way you talk to your mom.”

August 7, 2022
Sarah Grace Patrick Recognized as “Difference Maker of the Month” Source

• Gateway Kids Ministries published a public Facebook post naming Sarah Grace Patrick as the ministry’s Difference Maker of the Month. The post praised her involvement in the Children’s Ministry and highlighted her willingness to help others. Gateway Kids Ministries wrote:
• “This month’s Difference Maker is Sarah Grace Patrick. Sarah Grace is a huge help in the Children’s Ministry. She’s always willing to lend a helping hand to a child in need. We love you, Sarah Grace.”

August 21, 2022
Incident Leading to Arrest and Protective Order Filings Source

• Kristin Nolan Patrick allegedly attempted to run over James Matthew Brock while he was standing inside a barn. One minor child was in the backseat of the vehicle during the incident and the second minor child witnessed the event.
  Kristin was arrested on charges of Criminal Damage to Property in the First Degree and two counts of Cruelty to Children in the Third Degree.
• James Brock alleged a history of physical abuse including being slapped, pushed, shoved, threatened, having property damaged, interference with a 911 call, and harassment through text and social media.

August 22, 2022
Family Violence Warrant Issued  Source

• A Family Violence Warrant was issued charging Kristin Nolan Patrick with Criminal Damage to Property in the First Degree and Cruelty to Children in the Third Degree.
  The warrant includes the allegation that a child was inside the vehicle during the attempted assault and a second child witnessed the event.

August 24, 2022
Ex Parte Emergency Protective Order Granted Source

• James Brock petitioned the court for an emergency protective order. The Superior Court of Carroll County found probable cause that acts of family violence occurred and may continue.
• The court ordered the following:
• Kristin Nolan Patrick was immediately restrained from harassing, harming, threatening, or contacting James Brock or the minor children in any form.
• Kristin was restrained from approaching within 500 yards of the petitioner and the children.
• The court scheduled a show cause hearing for September 14, 2022.
• James Brock was awarded temporary custody of minor child Jaley Brock.
• Kristin was ordered to vacate the family residence at 1531 Tyus Carrollton Road and surrender all keys and security devices to law enforcement for transfer to the petitioner.
• Kristin was prohibited from approaching, surveilling, or contacting the petitioner at any location.

August 25, 2022
Petition for Twelve Month Protective Order Filed Source

• James Brock filed a formal Petition for a long term Family Violence Protective Order. The petition restated and expanded allegations:
• Kristin attempted to run over James Brock with a minor child in the vehicle and another child witnessing the incident.
• Allegations of past physical abuse including slapping, pushing, threats, property destruction, harassment, and interference with a 911 call.
• Petitioner described reasonable fear for his safety and the safety of the minor children.
• Requested relief included:
• Temporary and exclusive possession of the family home.
• Prohibition on Kristin contacting or approaching James or the children.
• Temporary sole legal and physical custody of the minor child.
• Orders preventing Kristin from interfering with utilities, destroying property, or removing property from the jurisdiction.
• The court was asked to schedule a hearing within thirty days and to issue a twelve month protective order.

September 14, 2022

• James Brock Filed a petition requesting Dismissal of Protective order Source

September 30, 2022
Kristin Brock Announces Breakup With James Brock Source

• Kristin Brock made a public Facebook post stating that she and James Brock were no longer together and were not on good terms.
• Kristin Brock wrote:
  “Hey me and James are not together not even friends I don’t really know him at all. I’m ashamed and hurt and embarrassed. Never again will you bring filth to my life. You play people like a fiddle, just not me anymore. Karma will be your king king Brock lmao.”

2023–Early 2024

• The Brock household includes:
• James Brock (stepfather, in his 40s) – suffering from serious heart failure and using an L-VAD device to keep his heart functioning.
• Kristen Brock (mother, 41) – described as a caring, involved parent, handling the majority of household responsibilities.
• Sarah Grace Patrick (daughter, born 2007) – attending high school, active online.
• 5-year-old half-sister (unidentified) – living in the same home.
• James undergoes multiple heart procedures and is reportedly on a transplant list. His health places significant pressure on the household.
• Kristen is the primary caregiver for both James and the children.

December 12, 2023

• Kristen and James Brock Married Source

March 2024

• Sarah works at Pelican’s Snoballs- Carrollton, Ga. Source

Mid–Late 2024

• Unconfirmed accounts from people close to the family suggest increased tension between Sarah and her parents, especially as Sarah enters age 16.
• According to those who knew the family, Sarah becomes more active on TikTok and begins sharing vague emotional or cryptic content.
• Sarah reportedly struggles with boundaries, according to social media acquaintances. A few family friends describe her as being “distant” or “increasingly oppositional” toward her mother.

Fall 2024

• Kristen allegedly confides in at least one friend that she is stressed at home, dealing with both James’s medical issues and conflict with Sarah.
• There is no known record of police involvement or CPS investigations prior to the murder. The family maintained a low public profile.

December 2024 – January 2025

• Sarah posts emotionally charged videos on TikTok referencing trauma, instability, or loss — some of which are later deleted.
• According to a now-deleted post from a peer, Sarah references her parents dying in vague, unsettling language. These posts do not appear to have been flagged or reported at the time.
• Around this time, Kristen allegedly tells a friend that Sarah has become harder to reach emotionally, though she still doesn’t express fear.

February 1–19, 2025

• In the two weeks leading up to the murders, Sarah continues posting on social media.
• She allegedly speaks with at least one person later revealed to be TikTok creator Kellie Brown and hints at emotional distress at home.
• There are no public signs of an imminent threat.
• James’s L-VAD is reportedly functioning, though he continues to experience medical complications. Kristen remains the primary caretaker.

February 19, 2025 (Evening)

• Sarah, Kristen, James, and the 5-year-old sister are all reportedly home.
• According to Sarah’s later statement to Kellie Brown, she hears James’s L-VAD alarm “10–20 minutes before going to bed,” but claims it was “faint” and masked by other noise.   Source
• No known 911 calls or signs of struggle are reported prior to the next morning.

February 20, 2025

• Morning: A 6-year-old half-sister discovers the bodies of Kristin Brock (41) and James Brock (45), both shot in bed at their Tyus home near Carrollton, Georgia
• Shortly after: 16-year-old Sarah calls 911 to report her sister finding their parents

February 21, 2025

• 10:28 AM: Update from Carroll County Sheriff’s Office: The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating a double homicide. Source
• The victims, who were located deceased by apparent gunshot wounds, were located in the morning hours of February 20, 2025, and they have been identified as James Brock, 45 and Kristin Brock, 41.
• Investigators processed the scene throughout the day yesterday and will continue their work today. They are actively following up on leads and have conducted numerous interviews. As part of the investigation, deputies will be canvassing the neighborhood again today.
• If you saw anything suspicious or have any information related to these homicides, please contact Investigator TJ Repetto at 770-830-5916 or via email at [email protected].
• At this time, driver’s license photos have been obtained of the victims. We urge anyone with relevant information to contact 911 or Investigator TJ Repetto.

February 22, 2025
GoFundMe Created on Behalf of Dennis Nolan for the Children of Kristin and James Brock Source

• A GoFundMe campaign was created on behalf of Dennis Nolan, father of Kristin Nolan Brock.
  The fundraiser states that Kristin and James were found dead on Thursday morning from gunshot wounds and notes that their children were left behind.
• The page explains that the purpose of the fundraiser is to raise money for the children and to assist with any additional expenses. The family also asks the public to keep them in their prayers.

February 27, 2025

• Kristin Patrick Charges on Cruelty to Children Dismissed Due To Death Source

March 1, 2025

• Sarah begins posting emotional TikToks grieving her parents, including a post on March 1 referencing the tragedy and forecasting grief over the next year
• These grief videos, viewed with suspicion by investigators, are later connected to her active TikTok account, which has since been removed  Source.

March 8, 2025

• Sarah delivers a public eulogy for her parents at Catalyst Church in Carrollton. The tearful yet scripted tone of the speech, including the word “sorry,” draws scrutiny from law enforcement and family members  Source.

March 19, 2025

• Sarah Grace Patrick posted a message under her fathers accounts: 
  “It’s Sarah, I post a lot of TikTok’s about my mom and my username is sgrace04282 (they’re emotional but just know I’m okay and I have a good support system)”  Source

April 24, 2025

• Sarah Grace Patrick Graduated from High School  Source

May 20, 2025

• Graduation Ceremony Source

June 3, 2025

• Sarah messages true-crime influencer  @AllegedlyReportedly, asking them to “look up Brock case” and suggesting media coverage   Source

July 2, 2025

• Sarah’s EX boyfriend Jackson Spradlin was arrested on charges not related to Sarah’s crime. Source

July 7, 2025

• Sarah was interviewed by the Caroll County Sheriff regarding her involvement. 
• After Interview Sarah went to Alabama. 

July 8, 2025

• 1:53 PM: Carroll County Sheriff Office: After a months-long investigation gathering “mountains of physical and digital evidence” (with assistance from the FBI and Georgia Bureau of Investigation), an arrest warrant is issued  Source
• Sarah, now 17, voluntarily turns herself in, accompanied by her biological father to Carroll County Jail.   Source

July 9, 2025

• Sarah is formally charged as an adult with two counts of murder and two counts of aggravated assault  Source
• Authorities confirm:
• There were no signs of forced entry and nothing appears stolen  Source
• The motive remains unknown, and additional arrests are not ruled out
• Sarah is being held in custody (either with bail or without bond reported variably)

July 11, 2025

• Defense counsel Latoya Williams files a Motion for Bond on behalf of Sarah Grace Patrick in Carroll County Superior Court, State of Georgia.
• The motion states the defendant is incarcerated in the Carroll County Detention Facility.
• The defense asserts the defendant’s presumption of innocence.
• The defense argues the defendant:
• Is not a flight risk.
• Is not a danger to the community or property.
• Poses no significant risk of reoffending.
• Is not a risk to intimidate witnesses or obstruct justice.

• The defense requests a bond hearing at the next regularly scheduled bond calendar and that bond be set in a reasonable amount.

July 16, 2025

• Sarah’s father Doniel Patric released a statement on Facebook   Source
  
  My daughter is 100% innocent. If you wanna talk to anybody about me and my daughter’s relationship come straight to me. I’m not hiding. I’m going to work and doing all the normal things that I have to do to support my son. Nobody knows my pain, but I choose to deal with it the way that I have to. I don’t want all of attention like everybody else. February 21 I had to come home and tell my son that his mother and his stepfather were dead. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do….   Source

July 22, 2025

• A Rule NISI was issued, setting an initial hearing on the Motion for Bond for August 11, 2025.

July 24, 2025

• A Notice to Defendant for a Non-Jury hearing on the bond motion was issued for August 11, 2025.

August 1, 2025

• An Amended Rule NISI was filed, rescheduling the Bond Motion hearing to August 19, 2025.

August 14, 2025

• Friends and a Family organized givesendgo campaign for a legal bills. Source

On behalf of Doniel Patrick, I’d like to start by saying, let’s support this family in this very difficult time! Sarah Grace Patrick, at just 16 years old, lost her Mother and Step-father in a very horrific way. Now, 5 months after their murders, Sarah, at just 17 years old is behind bars being accused. The family is in need of hiring a defense attorney for Sarah. This is her whole life we are talking about. Sarah is a very sweet young lady. To hear it from anyone who has ever actually known her is just heartbreaking to know what she is going through now. Please find it in your heart to even send 5 dollars and a prayer. Thank you

August 19, 2025

• An emotional bond hearing takes place where family members are divided on whether Patrick should be released.
• Prosecutors add charges of malice murder and weapons charges.
• A judge denies bond, citing her as a potential flight risk and danger to witnesses.

September 9, 2025

• Defense filed a Waiver of Arraignment, and the Defendant pleaded Not Guilty to all counts in the indictment.

September 11, 2025

• Certificates of Service for discovery were filed, noting that cell phone extractions, audio call/logs, timeline summaries, and audio recordings were loaded onto defense counsel’s external hard drive.

September 15, 2025

• Defense Counsel Latoya Williams filed a notice of Leave of Absence for Emergency Medical Leave from September 8 to October 8, 2025.

September 22, 2025

• Arraignment is scheduled (contingent on grand jury indictment).

November 19, 2025

• Defense filed a Request for Continuance of the January 5, 2026, trial date, citing that they had yet to receive full discovery.
• Defense also filed a Motion to Change Venue due to presumptive and actual prejudice from pretrial publicity.

November 20, 2025

• The State filed its Response to Defendant’s Motion for Continuance, addressing the status of the defense’s outstanding discovery requests.

November 21, 2025

• Superior Court Judge Dustin Hightower issues a written Order Denying Defendant’s Request for Continuance in State of Georgia v. Sarah Grace Patrick, Criminal Action No. SUCR202500711. Source
• The order addresses the defense’s November 19, 2025 request for continuance, which argued the case could not be ready for trial due to outstanding discovery.
• The State filed its response on November 20, 2025, asserting it had been diligently providing discovery, responding to defense inquiries, and would continue to do so.
• The court conducted a telephone conference on November 21, 2025, with counsel for both the State and the defense.
• Both parties waived oral argument and requested the court rule based on the written filings.

November 24, 2025

• The State filed its Response to Defendant’s Motion to Change Venue, requesting the court deny the motion.

November 25, 2025

• A Carroll County Superior Court judge denies the defense attorney’s request for a change of venue and a continuance of the trial.

December 3, 2025

• The Court issued an Order Denying Request for Certificate of Immediate Review for the change of venue.

December 9, 2025

• The Court issued an Order Limiting Access to Court File, granting the Defendant’s motion to file substantive evidentiary motions under seal.
• The Court issued orders concerning the use of recording devices, approving the request from 48 Hours/CBS News to record the upcoming proceedings (without livestreaming) and limiting the press pool.

December 11, 2025

• 9:00 AM The Court issued an Order Denying Motion to Change Venue, stating the motion was premature and that prejudice could be assessed during voir dire (jury selection).
• Defense filed a Motion in Limine seeking to prohibit the mention of the Defendant’s alleged sexual behavior or illicit drug use during trial.
• Defense filed a Request for Certificate of Immediate Review of the order denying the change of venue.

December 16, 2025

• Scheduled date for Calendar Call: Jury Trial.
• The tentative date January 5, 2026 for the start of the murder trial.

December 31, 2025

• The defense confirms it previously submitted a draft neuropsychological evaluation on December 31, 2025.

January 5, 2026: Scheduled Jury Trial Date

• A status hearing is held regarding trial readiness and outstanding discovery.
• The defense confirms it previously submitted a draft neuropsychological evaluation on December 31, 2025.
• Defense counsel states the final neuropsychological report is not yet complete and is expected to be finalized and disclosed within approximately one week.
• Despite the report’s incomplete status, the defense announces it is otherwise ready for trial.
• The prosecution moves for a continuance, citing the need to:
• Review the finalized expert report once disclosed.
• Assess whether additional findings or opinions are included.
• Determine whether a rebuttal expert is necessary.
• Avoid potential disruption or unfair prejudice if new expert material emerges during trial.
• Judge Hightower grants the prosecution’s motion and continues the trial to August 3, 2026.
• The court emphasizes that the continuance is granted to ensure fairness to both parties and states that this will be the final continuance.
• 12:28 PM A Motion for Immediate Bond Reconsideration is filed in Carroll County Superior Court, State of Georgia, in State of Georgia v. Sarah Grace Patrick, Case No. 25CR0711. Source

January 27, 2026

• Bond Motion Hearing is set for January 27, 2026 

August 3, 2026

• Judge Hightower grants the prosecution’s motion and continues the trial to August 3, 2026. 

A bond hearing was held for a Carroll County 17-year-old accused of murdering her mother and stepfather at their home

Bond Hearing Summary:  State v. Sarah Grace Patrick

• Charge context: double homicide of Kristin and James Brock
• Proceeding: Motion for bond under O.C.G.A. 17-6-1 and 15-11-560 (juvenile concurrent jurisdiction)
• Judge: Dustin W. Hightower
• Outcome: Bond denied

Key Witnesses and What They Said

Pastor Ben Bonner:

• Lead pastor, Catalyst Church, Carrollton, Georgia
• Has been lead pastor at Catalyst Church since its founding in 2017. Church has Sunday services at 9:00 and 10:30.
• Sarah Grace and her family began attending Catalyst around August of the prior year.
• Family members who attended and got involved:
• Sarah Grace
• Kristin
• James
• Sarah’s father “DJ” and “little DJ”
• Another sibling “Jay” (Jaye) lives away with her grandmother.
• Described the Brock / Patrick / Nolan family as very involved and beloved in the church.
• They joined “multiple teams” including cleaning and children’s ministry.
• They served during the week, not only on Sundays.
• Sarah’s conduct and faith: Sarah Grace made a personal decision to be baptized not long after she started attending.
• She regularly attended services, asked questions, invited others, and brought her then boyfriend.
• Even after the killings and throughout “this season,” she continued to attend services until her arrest.
• After being jailed, she has called him multiple times so he could pray with her.
• DJ (Sarah’s father): Became an active part of the church.
• Was recently baptized and still attends faithfully.
• Bonner’s position on bond: Wrote a character letter to the court on Sarah’s behalf.
• States that if the court grants bond, Catalyst Church would support her and “walk alongside her,” seeing church and family as an important support system.
• Emphasizes that the church is willing to facilitate any conditions the court might impose.

Caitlyn O’Keefe:

• Adult friend and caretaker who took Sarah in after the killings
• Knew Sarah’s father from online phone games and became friends.
• Met Sarah about three days after the murders (around 23–24 February).
• Father told her what happened and that the children had no clothes or personal items because the house was closed off.
• Caitlyn picked Sarah up and took her shopping for basic necessities: clothes, underwear, deodorant, etc.
• Sarah eventually moved in with Caitlyn.
• Caitlyn had an extra bedroom.
• Considered her home “a better situation” for Sarah after her mother’s death.
• Saw Sarah frequently crying and grieving in bed.
• Behavior in the home:
• Caitlyn had taken in other teens before and said Sarah was “a pleasure,” “easy,” and not a discipline problem.
• Ongoing contact: Talks to Sarah every day while she is incarcerated.
• Also maintains contact with Sarah’s grandmother, grandfather, father, and younger brother, who now live with Caitlyn.
• They pray together daily.
• Practical circumstances:
• Sarah only had a learner’s permit, not a full driver’s license. Caitlyn would practice driving with her and felt Sarah was not ready to drive on her own.
• Sarah had no personal vehicle.
• Sarah attended Central High School in Carrollton and worked very hard to graduate a year early.
• She had been on track to graduate early before the murders.
• After the killings, Caitlyn pushed her to keep doing schoolwork “to make your mom proud.”
• Sarah had a job at a local restaurant “down the street.” Staff there “loved her” and ask about her.

Carrie Jensen: 

• Longtime family friend, mother of Sarah’s best friend
• Met Sarah when Sarah was in seventh grade at East Coweta Middle School.
• Their daughters became “best friends.”
• Carrie also became close with Sarah’s father and stepmother at that time.
• Describes Sarah as:
• Shy at first, very sweet, kind, humble.
• Cautious around new people, but opened up and told Carrie she had a “motherly presence” that made her feel safe.
• Background and relationship dynamics: Refers to a custody battle involving “Donna and Kristen” at that time, implying substantial family conflict.
• Says Sarah confided in her about past experiences with Kristin and James.
• Quotes Sarah as saying, “No matter what they’ve done, I will always forgive them and love them… that’s not who they truly are,” presenting Sarah as deeply forgiving.
• Trauma indicators:
• Sarah apologized for basic needs like asking for food, taking a shower or using the bathroom, which Carrie found heartbreaking.
• Relationship with Carrie’s family:
• Sarah spent weekends at their house.
• Carrie’s daughter spent weekends with Sarah’s family.
• They camped, took trips, and spent weekends at West Point Lake.
• Attitude and behavior: Describes Sarah as full of life, happy, upbeat, typical teenager, but with signs of trauma.
• Very kind and patient with Carrie’s son who is autistic and the same age as Sarah.
• Protective of those she cares about.
• Ambitious about working in radiology and “never afraid of hard work.”
• Bond opinion: Does not believe hurting someone is in Sarah’s nature.
• Believes Sarah would not harm her siblings, only protect them.
• Offers to be part of Sarah’s “village” and to have Sarah live with them if needed, and to drive her wherever needed.
• Lives in Waverly, Alabama, not Carrollton.

Caitlyn Jensen (teen friend): 

• Sarah’s close teenage friend, daughter of Carrie. Sixteen years old.
• Met Sarah in middle school and remained close through high school.
• Describes their friendship: 
• They talk on the phone, sometimes through Snapchat.
• Caitlyn was never allowed at Sarah’s house, but Sarah was allowed at Caitlyn’s.
• Caitlyn would pick Sarah up in her own car and drive her to Alabama: they would get dinner, snacks, listen to music, then go to Caitlyn’s home and play with Caitlyn’s two year old son and watch movies.
• Post-arrest contact:
• Has talked to Sarah since incarceration.
• Conversations focus on love, gratitude, looking forward to “jet skis again,” having fun, being a teenager, and prayer.
• Timing of last visit:
• Picked Sarah up the day she thought Sarah “might get her phone back” and brought her to Alabama for a sleepover.
• They got the call that Sarah needed to come back home.
• Caitlyn places this around 8 July 2025, the day before Sarah’s 9 July arrest.
• Flight issues:
• States Sarah never asked her to hide her in Alabama or help her run.
• Had no concerns about Sarah trying to flee.

Tasha Meza: 

• Friend of Kristin and Sarah, fellow Catalyst Church member
• Met Kristin at a doctor’s office.
• Invited Kristin and the family to Catalyst Church.
• Family began attending two weeks later and then came every Sunday.
• Over time, they became more involved in activities beyond Sunday services.
• Tasha’s relationship with Sarah:
• Her daughter and Sarah became friends.
• They saw each other at events like birthday parties and cookouts.
• Tasha mostly interacted with Kristin by phone, then more in person over time.
• Position on bond:
• Agrees with Pastor Bonner.
• Says she has already been part of Sarah’s “village” and will not stop now.
• Willing to help facilitate Sarah’s life in Carroll County if bond is granted.

Shaveena Rogers: 

• Criminal defense investigator, Georgia Public Defender Council
• Investigator for the Georgia Public Defender Council, assigned to this case.
• Ran a GCIC (Georgia Criminal Information Center) criminal history on Sarah.
• Report shows only the current charges: two counts of murder and two counts of aggravated assault in this case.
• No prior arrests or criminal record in Georgia.
• Collected character letters for Sarah from multiple witnesses, including her Subway supervisor.
• Supervisor’s letter expressed support for Sarah.
• Confirmed employment:
• Sarah worked at a Subway restaurant in Carrollton.
• Confirmed Sarah has no driver’s license, only a permit.
• Acknowledged that Sarah has lived in other areas, including Fairburn, Georgia, but did not deeply investigate those locations.

Victim Impact Speakers

Kim Bowling: Sister of James “Jamie” Brock

• Describes Jamie as her only remaining brother and only sibling.
• Reads prepared statement: Emphasizes trauma of losing both Jamie and Kristin in a “brutal” way while they were in bed.
• Notes both victims were shot multiple times, including in the head.
• Highlights trauma to five year old Paris, who found her parents’ bodies.
• Says Paris loved Sarah like a sister.
• States she fears for Jay’s safety and for the family’s safety if Sarah is released.
• Raises concerns about:
• Flight risk, asserting Sarah’s family has financial resources and may help her flee.
• Witness intimidation, claiming a pattern of intimidation toward family members.
• Personal safety risk, arguing that if Sarah could kill her parents, she could harm others.
• Requests that bond be denied.

Tristan Brock:

• Adult son of James Brock
• Describes emotional toll of losing his father: depression, insomnia, constant reminder from his father’s urn.
• Feels he is living a “nightmare” and has not been able to begin grieving properly.
• Talks about missed milestones, including his father not meeting his grandson.
• Calls the crime “heinous.”
• On bond: Believes Sarah poses a serious flight risk.
• States her family has significant financial resources and a broad support network.
• Does not believe she has the integrity or accountability to face consequences.
• Opposes bond.

Statement of Jaden Brock (read by Kelly Brown): Twelve year old son of James Brock

• Jaden’s letter describes:
• His father as his hero and the person he looked up to.
• Shared activities, joking, and help with school.
• Deep sadness, difficulty sleeping, focusing, or smiling.
• Continuing to “wait” for his dad to walk through the door even though he knows that will not happen.
• Feeling betrayed and confused, because he trusted and loved Sarah like a sister.
• Bond view: States he does not think someone who could do this should be “allowed to go free right now.”
• Says he would not feel safe if she were released.

Kelly Brown: 

• Longtime family friend who grew up with Kim and has known Jamie since he was two.
• Confirms Jaden wrote the statement with help from his mother and Kim.
• Legal Arguments: State’s Argument Against Bond
• Seriousness of the offense
• Double homicide of the defendant’s mother and stepfather, committed in their bed.
• Court is permitted to consider seriousness of the crime when assessing risk factors.
• Flight risk
• Sarah has lived in multiple locations across Georgia and in Alabama, so has broad geographic ties.
• Family allegedly has sufficient financial resources to facilitate flight.
• Family believes she might flee if released.
• Danger to community and victims
• Brock family members are genuinely afraid for their safety and believe she is capable of further violence.
• State cites testimony describing manipulation, lack of integrity, and lack of accountability.
• Risk of witness influence
• Concern that Sarah could influence or manipulate the six year old child witness.
• Emphasizes that there is risk of interference with the child’s testimony and broader risk of obstruction if she is free.

State’s conclusion

• Acknowledges Sarah has community ties and supportive people.
• Argues that, despite this, she remains a poor candidate for bond due to flight risk, danger, and risk to witnesses under the preponderance standard.

Defense Argument For Bond

• Presumption of innocence and purpose of bond
• Emphasizes that Sarah is presumed innocent and that bond exists to prevent pretrial punishment and to secure appearance.
• Cites case law and O.C.G.A. 17-6-1 on bond standards and factors.
• Community ties
• Presents multiple witnesses and letters showing:
• Strong ties to Carroll County through school, work, and church.
• Deep involvement in Catalyst Church.
• Supportive “village” including Nolan family and non-family friends willing to house her and supervise her.
• Distinguishes her situation from defendants with no evidence of ties.

Risk factors addressed

Flight:

• No prior attempt to flee, despite months between February homicides and July arrest.
• Sarah visited Alabama but never tried to hide or ask anyone to conceal her.
• She has no driver’s license, no personal vehicle, and limited capacity to travel.

Danger to community:

• No criminal history at all.
• No prior evidence of violent behavior or access to firearms.
• Conditions could prohibit her from being around firearms.

Risk of committing new felonies:

• Again, no prior record and no pattern of offending.

Witness influence:

• Court could bar contact with the younger sibling and other witnesses.
• Younger sibling has no phone, so contact can be easily controlled.
• Nolan side vs Brock side
• Defense notes that the Nolan family, who are also victims, support Sarah and are willing to have her live with them, in contrast to Brock family fears.

Conditions suggested

• House arrest, ankle monitor, GPS tracking.
• Restrictions on social media and phone use.
• No contact orders with specific witnesses or children.
• Jail conditions
• Notes that due to her age Sarah is in solitary confinement at the jail.
• Raises concerns about prolonged isolation for a juvenile and its constitutional implications, and argues this is another reason to favor bond plus strict conditions.

Judge’s Analysis and Ruling

Legal standard

• Defense has burden of production to show that Sarah does not pose a significant risk in the four statutory categories.
• State has burden of persuasion to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that bond should be denied.

Judge clarifies that preponderance is a “greater than 50 percent” likelihood, far lower than proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and that this is not a trial on guilt.

Findings

• Judge weighs credibility of witnesses on both sides.
• Puts particular weight on the testimony of those “closest in family relationship” who expressed deep concerns about:
• Flight risk.
• Danger to the community and to them personally.
• Risk of influence or manipulation of witnesses.
• Concludes that the state has met its burden by a preponderance of the evidence.

Ruling

• Bond is denied.
•  Judge emphasizes: He understands that either decision would leave one side feeling that justice was not done. His role is not to act as the jury, but to apply the bond law faithfully.

Case scheduling

• To mitigate pretrial detention, judge sets an aggressive schedule, pending indictment:
• Grand jury consideration the same afternoon.
• If indicted (true bill):

Arraignment date: September 22, 2025

• Non-jury date: November 17, 2025
• Calendar call: December 16, 2025
• Trial readiness: January 5, 2026

Notes that because she is in custody and a juvenile in isolation, her case will be treated as a priority. Acknowledges parties may file motions for continuance, but states he is typically reluctant to grant them and will require formal motions and hearings if requested.

Ongoing Investigation & Public Reaction

• Law enforcement describes the probe as “active,” emphasizing large volumes of evidence and the possibility of further apprehensions
• Observers raise concerns about her emotionally charged social media presence and public expressions of grief, which some interpreted as insincere or calculated.

Victim Background: James Brock (45)

• James Brock, Sarah Grace Patrick’s stepfather, reportedly suffered from serious heart conditions.
• According to family sources, he had undergone multiple heart surgeries and was believed to be awaiting a heart transplant at the time of his death.
• He used an L-VAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) a mechanical pump to support heart function and blood flow which was reportedly heard alarming the night of the murders.
• The L-VAD’s alarm, typically triggered by malfunction or loss of connection, was mentioned by both Sarah Patrick and family friend Kellie Brown during post-crime communications.

Victim Background: Kristen Brock (41)

• Kristen Brock was the biological mother of Sarah Grace Patrick and the legal guardian of both Sarah and her younger half-sister.
• She lived in Tyus, Georgia, with her husband James Brock and their children.
• Kristen was described by friends and family as a devoted mother and a hardworking woman who tried to provide a stable home.
• She was reportedly active in the local church and well-liked in her community.
• In the weeks following her death, several TikTok users who knew Kristen posted tributes, describing her as “kind, generous, and trusting.”
• According to sources close to the family, Kristen had experienced stress in the household but had never expressed fear of Sarah or suspicion of violence.

Letter from Pastor Ben Bonner – (Defense Bond Exhibit 2)

To the Honorable Judge,

My name is Ben Bonner and I serve as the lead pastor at Catalyst Church in Carrollton, Georgia. I am writing on behalf of Sarah Grace Patrick, a young woman who has been part of our church family for about a year.

Sarah Grace first came to Catalyst approximately one year ago. From the very beginning she was eager to grow in her faith and become involved. She made a personal decision to be baptized not long after she began attending and remained consistently connected to our church. She did not simply attend on Sundays. She came during the week, asked questions, served, and invited others, including her boyfriend at the time. It was clear that she felt at home in our community.

Throughout this past year, even during the challenges she faced, she continued to attend services regularly. She and her family often drove more than an hour to be with us. I have spoken with her many times and prayed with her many times. She has always shown commitment to staying grounded in her faith and connected to a healthy community. She has even called from jail so that I could pray with her

Her father has also become an active part of the church. He was recently baptized and faithfully attends services. It has been a privilege to walk with their family during such a difficult time, and we care for them deeply.

If the court finds it appropriate to grant bond for Sarah Grace, our church will gladly continue to support her. We believe that having her with her family and community is an important part of her support system. We are committed to encouraging her, loving her, and helping her continue on a positive path.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Pastor Ben Bonner
Catalyst Church
Carrollton, Georgia

Letter from Carrie Jensen (Defense Bond Exhibit, read aloud in court)

Dear Judge Hightower,

My name is Carrie Jensen and I am writing on behalf of Sarah Grace. I first met Sarah when she was in seventh grade. She and my daughter attended the same middle school, and her stepsister played softball with my daughter. Our families quickly grew close. Sarah spent weekends at our home and my daughter Caitlyn spent time at theirs. We shared camping trips and weekends at West Point, creating strong bonds. The girls have been best friends ever since.

At the time I met her, Sarah’s family was in the middle of a custody dispute. Sarah was a little shy, very sweet, kind, and humble. She was cautious around new people but warmed up to me. She once told me that I had a motherly presence that made her feel safe. As our relationship grew, she opened up about her past and about her experiences at home.

One thing she said that I never forgot was this. “No matter what they have done, I will always forgive them and love them because deep down I know that is not who they truly are.” That statement revealed the depth of Sarah’s heart. She truly believes in forgiveness and has always extended grace to others. She once told me that holding grudges is not what God wants for us. I have carried those words with me ever since.

While staying at our home, Sarah was full of life, happy, and upbeat, showing all the qualities of a typical teenager. But there were also signs of trauma. She apologized for things she never needed to apologize for, such as asking for food, taking a shower, or using the bathroom. Despite that, she was incredibly kind and respectful. She showed patience and compassion toward my son, who is on the autism spectrum and the same age as Sarah. She was protective of him and of everyone she cared about.

Sarah has a huge heart. She is loving, protective, and deeply rooted in her faith. She has always expressed a desire to work in the radiology field and has never been afraid of hard work. Hurting others is not in her nature.

Over the years, I have held her through moments of deep pain and tears. Through it all, her love for her family, especially her siblings Jaylen and Donnie, has remained strong. She would never harm them. She wants only to protect them.

I respectfully ask the court to consider granting Sarah Grace bond. She is deeply loved and supported by my family and by her own. I believe she deserves the opportunity to be home, surrounded by the people who care for her.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Carrie Jensen

Letter from Tristan Brock – (Oldest son of James Brock)

To the Honorable Judge,

My name is Tristan Brock and I am James Brock’s oldest son. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak. I want to share how my life has been affected by the loss of my father and stepmother.

Your Honor, it feels like I am living in a nightmare. I am depressed and I struggle to sleep. I cannot walk through my own living room without seeing my father’s urn and being reminded of everything all over again. I miss him deeply. I wish I could see him again. I wish he could have met his grandson. And most of all, I wish I could hear his voice one more time. Instead, all I have is an urn that represents memories we made and the countless memories that will never be.

As a little boy, I believed my dad was as strong as Superman. I believed nothing could ever happen to him and that he would always be there. That belief is now shattered. Instead of healing, I find myself reliving this shock, pain, and confusion every single day. I have not even been able to begin to grieve.

Before the court makes any decision regarding bond, I ask that you consider several important concerns. First, I believe the defendant poses a serious flight risk. Her family has significant financial resources and a wide support network, and I believe these could easily be used to help her evade law enforcement if she were released.

Second, based on her past behavior and what I know of her personally, I do not believe she has the integrity or accountability required to face these consequences. I worry she would flee rather than stand trial.

I also worry about the safety of my family if she were allowed to go free. What happened to my father and stepmother was brutal and senseless. I do not believe someone who is capable of that should be released while awaiting trial.

Thank you for allowing me to be heard.

Sincerely,
Tristan Brock

Kim Bowling – (Sister of James Brock)

To the Honorable Judge,

My name is Kim Bowling and I am the sister of James Brock. Thank you for allowing me to speak. Since the day my brother Jamie and his wife Kristen were taken from us, I have felt responsible for being their voice, because they no longer have one.

I lost my only brother in the most horrific way imaginable. Every night I lie awake thinking about their final moments. I imagine their fear as they were shot in their own bed. I imagine the terror my brother must have felt and the suffering that Kristen endured. These thoughts haunt me.

My five year old niece woke to find her parents lifeless. This trauma will follow her for the rest of her life. She loved her sister Sarah, and it devastates me that the person she trusted is the one accused of causing this pain.

I am deeply concerned for the safety of my family if the defendant is released. We have seen the death certificates. We know they were shot multiple times, including both being shot in the head. If she could do that to her own parents, I fear what she could do to others.

I also fear she may flee if released. Her family has financial resources that could help her disappear. I worry she would intimidate witnesses or attempt to interfere with the case.

My family believes in justice. We believe in the work of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office. We believe in our faith. I pray for justice for Jamie and Kristen and that bond will be denied.

Thank you for allowing me to share this.

Sincerely,
Kim Bowling

Letter from Jaden Brock (Age 12) (Read aloud by Kelly Brown during the bond hearing)

To the Honorable Judge,

My name is Jaden Brock, and I am 12 years old. I wanted to speak today because my dad and stepmom were shot and killed. I miss my dad every day. He was my hero and the person I looked up to the most. We did everything together. He helped me with school and he always made me laugh, and we joked around a lot.

Since he died, everything has changed. I feel sad and confused. It is hard to sleep. It is hard to focus. It is even hard to smile sometimes. I still wait to hear his voice or see him walk through the door, but I know that will never happen again.

Something that hurts even more is that I trusted Sarah and I loved her like a sister. I do not understand why she would do this to me or why she would hurt everyone like this. My dad and Kristen did not deserve this. No one does.

I do not think someone who could do something like this should be allowed to go free right now. I would not feel safe, and I would be very scared.

Please think about what my family is going through. I hope you make a decision that protects us and remembers who my dad was, a good man and a loving father who did not deserve to die.

Thank you for listening to me.

Sincerely,
Jaden Brock

I just—my brother’s. For those of you who do not know me, my name is Sarah and I’m Kristen Brock’s daughter and James Brock’s stepdaughter. This isn’t like a little bit of me to do this all the time but I’m really happy I get to do this. But just bear with me because I stutter a lot. I just wanted to say goodbye to my mom and Jamie since we never got the chance to. I was so used to you guys always being here to complete that I never once thought to imagine y’all not being here. I didn’t have a single clue how much I needed y’all until now.

For James, thank you for all the life lessons you taught me and for being the best, honest dad ever. Your heart will finally be healed in heaven and neither of y’all will be in any pain anymore. Although that gives me so much comfort, your fight was not supposed to end there. And for my mother, everything we went through does not define what kind of person or what kind of mother you were. You were a beautiful, kind soul with so much gratitude and so gosh dang strong. And you taught me so many life lessons. And so, you just recently taught me through the letter you sent to James in 2018. When I first read it, I followed you, I cried, and I got chill bumps. But every single time I read it, it puts me to a lot of peace. So, I thought I would share it.

May 23rd, 2018. Deuteronomy 6:5: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” “The wrong one will bind you in peace and lead you in pieces, but the right one will bind you in pieces and lead you in peace.”

We can’t always choose the music the life plays for us but you—but you can choose how we dance to it. She was always dancing to her own beat lol. And keep in mind, she wrote that herself. Eventually, all the pieces fall into place but until then, laugh at the confusion. Live for the moment and know that everything happens for a reason. I can choose to let it define me, come find me, refine me, watch on me or I can choose to move on and leave it behind me. Always, Kristen Brock.

Considering that gave me so much closure I want to remember them for who they were and not what happened to them and be happy for the time we got to spend together and not sad about the time that we don’t. I may always and will always be her sunshine but she will always be my child and love above. And I know at nighttime I can go and look at Mama and Jamie in the sky. And gladly they will save me a seat in heaven like they saved—for, sorry. Gladly they will save a seat for me in heaven like they saved a seat for me in this very church.

Although there’s nothing we can do to bring them back we still have control over how we treat people with us today. Therefore, when someone tries to tell you anything no matter how important it could be, just listen because you never know when somebody’s time to go. You could say good night and wake up a few hours, just to find out they aren’t there despite their joy and their love. So, just listen and never take a hug or anyone or anything for granted and love with all that you have in you like they did. And lastly, my tip on not taking people for granted I want to thank my family, also known as my ‘catapam,’ my grandparents, my siblings Jamie, Donnie, Jaden, Jojo, Tristan, Ashley, and Jesse for helping me get through my worst nightmare. And last but not least, I want to thank Sasha, Bri, Nate, Lane, Kimberly, Hayes, Kim, Katie and most of all, my father, Angie, and Ben for making such a big difference. Jamie and Mama would have thanked y’all, too. I love you guys, and so do I. And so do I. I’m sorry.