Loretto, Tennessee — A misconduct charge against City Manager Jesse Turner was officially retired in Lawrence County Circuit Court on Sept. 18, following an indictment by a grand jury in June. The charge stemmed from an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office concerning work done on a septic tank at Turner’s Leoma residence.
The investigation began after reports that two city employees had improperly disposed of wastewater from Turner’s septic tank onto his property while also replacing a malfunctioning pump. According to state regulations, sewage cannot be disposed of on private land, and individuals must possess a permit from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation to perform septic work. Neither Turner nor the employees involved had the requisite permits at the time of the incident.
Investigators determined that Turner had allowed city resources to be used for personal work during business hours, violating city regulations that prohibit employees from benefiting personally from public resources. The case was overseen by Judge Russell Parkes, who ordered the retirement of the class E felony, allowing Turner to have the charge dismissed and expunged after six months.
Brent Cooper, the 22nd Judicial District Attorney, acknowledged public concern when citizens reported seeing city workers performing septic tank work at Turner’s home. In a statement, Cooper highlighted the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities, stating that a thorough investigation had been conducted by the Comptroller’s Office.
While acknowledging the indictment was warranted based on the evidence presented, Cooper emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the incident suggested it was an isolated event influenced more by a faulty pump and excessive rainfall than by any malicious intent on Turner’s part. He noted that the city incurred no financial losses due to the incident and mentioned that Turner had received a warning from the Department of Environment and Conservation regarding the illegal disposal of sewage.
Turner retained the support of the Loretto City Council throughout the legal proceedings. Cooper stated that the overall goal of the prosecution is to maintain community safety and highlighted that the resolution of this case aligned with that objective.
Turner’s attorney, Robert D. “Bob” Massey, issued a statement applauding the court’s decision. He contended that the ruling allows Turner to continue his role in serving the community without the stain of a criminal record, emphasizing Turner’s integrity since assuming office at the young age of 32.
Massey further argued that the state’s investigation overlooked evidence favoring Turner and that city employees were technically off the clock when they visited his home. He noted that the city has since implemented a vehicle use policy driven by this incident.
In a public statement, Turner expressed relief and gratitude following the court’s decision. He maintained that he did nothing wrong and felt that justice had been served. Reflecting on the challenges faced during the legal process, he acknowledged the emotional toll it took on him and his family but credited the support from loved ones and the community for helping him persevere.
Turner concluded with optimism about moving forward, reaffirming his commitment to serving Loretto with honesty and integrity.
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