James Dunn, District Attorney General of the 4th Judicial District has been appointed as District Attorney General Pro Tem to review the complaint of Bradley County Commissioner Dan Rawls of alleged illegal actions and misconduct by Bradley County Sheriff Eric Watson. Mr. Dunn and his office will handle the matter going forward.
Commissioner Rawls earlier gave the evidence to District Attorney Steve Crump, the TBI and the FBI.
He said some of the allegations include the disposition of a sheriff's van, the activity of his wife, Tenille, as a bonding agent, the sheriff's alleged involvement with a woman who has had several arrests, and alleged threats toward him made by the sheriff.
Commissioner Rawls said he believes Sheriff Watson, a former state legislator who has launched several faith-based programs since being elected sheriff, should be removed from office and face criminal charges.
Sheriff Watson said, "Since my election, I have done everything in my power to make Bradley County safer and to improve our sheriff's office. When I ran, I said I wanted to return fiscal responsibility to the department and I have done so.
“I have done nothing wrong. I have not betrayed my oath or the public trust in any way. I will cooperate fully with any investigation and will look forward to being cleared of any wrongdoing. My only agenda will be keeping the citizens of Bradley County safe.”