A 22-year-old Rossville man has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to Malice Murder in the killing of a fellow inmate inside the Catoosa County Jail.

On February 10, 2026, Erwin Vanegas entered the guilty plea for the murder of 71-year-old Robert White, stemming from an attack that happened on December 5, 2024 while the two men were cellmates. Chief Judge Brian M. House sentenced Vanegas to life in the Georgia Department of Corrections. After serving 30 years, Vanegas may become eligible for parole.

According to case information, Vanegas assaulted White while White was lying in bed, repeatedly stomping on his head. White was transported to the hospital and later died on January 18, 2025 as a result of his injuries.

Lt. Todd Pitts of the Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman and Senior Assistant District Attorney Beth Evans, with assistance from Victim Advocate Shelby Armstrong and Legal Assistants Leann Black and Rachel Moon.

In a statement, Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman credited Senior ADA Evans’ preparation for securing the guilty plea ahead of a scheduled jury trial, adding that the conviction sends a message that violence will not be tolerated in the jail or in the community.