THOMASVILLE — A 21-count indictment was returned Thursday in Thomas County Superior Court on Robert Carter, who is charged with killing a 70-year-old Thomasville woman in July 2018.

Carter was indicted on:

• Felony murder

• Five counts of false imprisonment

• Financial transaction card theft

• Concealing death of another

• Two counts of theft by taking

• Four counts of kidnapping

• Four counts of armed robbery

• First-degree burglary

• Sexual battery

• Criminal attempt to commit a felony

In addition to the charge of murder of Deanna Shirey, Carter was indicted on multiple counts associated with her death. Other charges stem from Carter allegedly taking a Thomasville woman and an Ochlocknee family hostage in July 2018.

Carter will be arraigned May 20 and answer to the charges.

“I think it’s a good indictment,” Southern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Brad Shealy said. “I think we covered all the offenses he committed in the three incidents.”

Malice murder carries a maximum punishment of life with parole. Armed robbery carries a maximum sentence of life.

Shealy said two armed robbery life sentences would result in a 60-year prison sentence.

Considering the seriousness of the charges, “I think we can put him away for a long time,” the district attorney said.

Carter is being represented by a public defender.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820