‘West Georgia Monster’ Indicted in 2006 Cobb County Sexual Assault After DNA Match Links Him to Cold Case

DOUGLASVILLE, Ga. — A Douglasville man known by investigators as the “West Georgia Monster” has been indicted in Cobb County for a sexual assault case dating back nearly two decades, after DNA evidence connected him to a 2006 rape.

Authorities say Bobby Lee Hart Jr., who is already facing multiple rape and assault charges in Douglas County, was indicted by a Cobb County grand jury on October 23. The charges mark the first case filed against him outside Douglas County.

DNA Links Hart to 2006 Cobb County Rape

According to court documents, the Cobb County assault remained unsolved for 19 years until a DNA sample taken from Hart matched evidence collected from the 2006 crime scene. Investigators confirmed the match on August 22, 2025, just weeks after Hart’s arrest on August 9 in Douglas County.

The indictment includes charges of aggravated assault and false imprisonment, in addition to rape. Authorities have not released further details about the 2006 incident, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

Decade of Alleged Attacks Across West Georgia

Hart has been accused of at least seven rapes dating back to 2012, many of which reportedly followed a disturbing pattern. According to investigators, Hart often targeted women he met through social interactions, then allegedly recorded the assaults using hidden cameras.

Search warrants executed earlier this year revealed that Hart allegedly used vehicles equipped with manipulated locks to trap victims inside, preventing escape. Police say he owned over 20 vehicles, including vans and SUVs, which were used in multiple assaults across Douglas, Carroll, and now Cobb Counties.

“We believe this suspect used his mobility and multiple vehicles to target victims across several jurisdictions,” an investigator familiar with the case said. “The DNA evidence and digital material recovered are helping us piece together years of crimes.”

Items Seized and Ongoing Investigation

During searches of Hart’s properties, authorities seized clothing, seat covers, photographs of women, DVDs, and electronic devices, all of which are being examined for potential evidence.

Investigators say the materials, combined with new DNA results, have strengthened the case against Hart and could lead to additional indictments in surrounding counties.

Douglas County District Attorney Dalia Racine said her office is working with multiple jurisdictions to identify potential victims and bring closure to families.

“Authorities are committed to identifying and supporting all survivors,” Racine said in a public statement. “If there are others out there who recognize this individual or his methods, we urge them to come forward.”

Hart Remains in Custody Without Bond

Hart is currently being held without bond at the Douglas County Jail as investigations continue in both counties. Officials believe there may be additional victims who have not yet been identified.

How to Report Information or Seek Help

Victims or anyone with information related to Hart or similar incidents are urged to contact the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office at 770-920-7292, email da@douglascountyga.gov, or reach out to local law enforcement.

Those in need of support can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit rainn.org to connect with trained advocates.

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel will continue to monitor developments in this case as more details emerge regarding the ongoing investigation and potential new charges.