Polk County woman arrested on six counts of voter bribery

Arkansas-Wofford Live Blog
photo Jo Ann Cronan

Votes were bought in Polk County, Tenn.'s August election, according to a TBI investigation.

Jo Ann Cronan, of Polk County, was arrested Tuesday and charged by a grand jury on six counts of voter bribery, as she allegedly paid voters to cast their votes for specific candidates.

"I am very confident in the TBI's work in this case," District Attorney General Stephen Crump said. "[They] heard the proof and acted."

TBI began investigating the case in July after allegations were made by witnesses who said individuals were being paid to vote for certain candidates.

The vote-buyers were said to be offering $15 or a Xanax tablet, but that has not been confirmed.

"It has long been rumored [that vote buying] has taken place in the county," Crump said. "In this case, the grand jury has spoken for what took place here and now."

In a news release, Crump stated, "For too long, this sort of criminal activity has been accepted as part of life in Polk County. ... It will no longer be tolerated."

TBI is also investigating election activities in Monroe County, and evidence may soon be presented to the grand jury in Monroe, according to Crump.

Crump said the two cases of voter manipulation are unrelated.

"A person who would buy a vote is not serving the interests of a political party," Crump said. "They have a dangerous desire for power and control and, ultimately, only serve their own selfish interests."

Contact staff writer at Kendi Anderson at kendi.anderson@timesfreepress.com or at 423-757-6592.

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