Audio clip
Hamilton County Commission -- Feb. 6, 2008
The Hamilton County Commission is awaiting an announcement from Sheriff Billy Long before taking any action to oust or replace the sheriff, who was arrested Saturday on federal extortion, money laundering, gun and drug charges.
Commission Chairman Bill Hullander recessed today’s meeting until Thursday morning at 9:30.
“We can recess day-by-day,” he said. “If anything breaks, I want us to be here.”
Mr. Hullander said commissioners were waiting to find out if Sheriff Long intends to resign.
If Sheriff Long does not resign, they could recommend that County Attorney Rheubin Taylor file an ouster suit. Mr. Hullander said Mr. Taylor could have papers for an ouster suit ready within a day.
Commissioners praised Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Allen Branum and the department at this morning’s meeting.
An emotional Chief Branum thanked the commissioners for their support.
“The man (Sheriff Long) they were talking about Saturday was not the man I knew,” Chief Branum said.
For full coverage, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.
