CLEVELAND, Tenn. — Bradley County Commissioner Howard Thompson resigned Monday both as chairman and a member of the County Commission’s Law Enforcement Committee.
Thompson said, however, he will stay on the commission as one of two representing the 4th District.
Commission Chairman Louie Alford accepted the resignation. Alford said he will have a replacement to announce during the next commission meeting.
“Each of you know that I am the subject of a criminal investigation by our local law enforcement,” Thompson read from a statement during Monday evening’s Commission meeting. “Because of the work and commitment which I have made to many of the issues that we will face in the next few weeks, I have decided that, for the present, I will continue to serve the people of the 4th District and Bradley County.
“I have, however, decided that the appearance of serving on the Law Enforcement Committee and as chairman of the Law Enforcement Committee may be inappropriate to many people. Those who have served in law enforcement know that I have been a strong supporter of law enforcement. I will continue to do so.”
Thompson said he has been humbled by calls, letters and prayers of support.
“I pledge to you that, to my knowledge, no one has accused me of any wrongdoing in my capacity as a commissioner from the 4th Civil District and that I will take additional steps when and if they become the thing to do. I want everyone to know that I am truly sorry for any act of mine which would cause people to criticize this commission. All I can do now is cooperate with the investigation and do the right thing for the people.”
Police executed a search warrant two weeks ago at Thompson’s flea market and home. He has not been charged.
Contact Randall Higgins at rhiggins@timesfreepress.com or 423-314-1029.