Ex-assistant DA, her ex-boyfriend charged with extortion

The TBI is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Cookeville.
The TBI is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Cookeville.

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (AP) - A former Tennessee assistant district attorney was accused of dismissing charges in exchange for money, officials said.

Former Washington County Assistant District Attorney General Erin Dougherty McArdle was charged Tuesday with conspiracy to commit extortion, extortion under color of official right and solicitation of a bribe, news outlets reported.

McArdle's ex-boyfriend, Tommy Tylee Henry, faces the same charges.

According to the indictment, McArdle and Henry conspired to get paid in exchange for McArdle dropping charges. Henry would contact the victims, while McArdle would prepare documents to drop the cases, the indictment said.

McArdle and Henry extorted two victims, one of which sent the couple $50,000, the indictment said.

The names of the victims weren't immediately released.

It's unclear whether McArdle or Henry had attorneys who could comment on their behalf.

McArdle resigned April 3.

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