Monroe County TN Neighborhood World Watch

Former Chief of Police Bill Isbell investigated in Missing Money Probe

2012-01-24T19:38:00.058-05:00

Thousands in cash, guns, and drugs missing--major scandal for TPPD

An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury of the Tellico Plains Police Department (TPPD), is sure to impact the careers of some present and former members of the Tellico Plains Police Dept. See report HERE. Bill Isbell was the appointed Chief of Police during the time period under investigation--July 1, 2009 to April 30, 2011...Isbell had close ties to Polk County Florida Sheriff Grady Judd--Polk County Florida is where Bill Isbell moved back to; and where he now resides.

When former mayor Powers asked last year, no one in the (TPPD) would admit--'who was responsible' for giving (Don Charest) of Charest Company, LLP-Financial Planners a key to the police station?... as told by Former mayor Powers. Alabama transplant Don Charest, had become Isbell's right-hand man--see the Isbell/Charest cartel.

The local news media initially reported that Tellico Plains Mayor Patrick Hawkins had received the report from the auditors late Thursday 1/19/2012 via e-mail. Mayor Hawkins said ..."I'm going to give all my board members time to review the report, we'll bring it up at the next board meeting and decide if we want to pursue the findings further."

2/2/2012 UPDATE--Mayor Hawkins said the audit report is being reviewed by the The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Could Isbell and/or any of his cronies be indicted?

This really comes as 'no surprise'... former chief of police Bill Isbell had gotten away with registering what was supposed to be "the first Tellico Plains Police Department website," to (himself!), at his personal P.O. Box in Coker Creek TN... By many accounts, the former Tellico Plains mayor was 'asleep at the wheel'... and was clearly, for the most part, no match for Isbell's 'city-slicker' level of sophistication--except in the last few months of his term, when he gave Bill Isbell an 'offer he couldn't refuse.'

Was Bill Isbell's 'hand-picked successor' (Tonia Norwood) aware of any financial malfeasance during Bill Isbell's tenure?... Was Isbell's campaign in the 2010 Monroe County Sheriff's race paid, in part, by the City of Tellico Plains?

The Sweetwater TN based Advocate&Democrat--has been the only recognized, or the "official" Tellico Plains Newspaper listed in the Tellico Plains City website...an email by reporter Jessica Cross on 12/8/2011 (see screenshot below), confirmed that the former mayor had two versions as to why Bill Isbell resigned last March 2011--the real version, and the one she was supposed to print.

Florida Sheriff Grady Judd keynote speaker at Yates funeral service

2011-12-30T13:23:00.057-05:00

The scheduled keynote speakers yesterday at alderman Harkey Yate's funeral service were--Rev. Rick Atkins and Polk County Florida Sheriff Grady Judd, who would be 'officiating.' Sheriff Grady Judd was the boss/mentor of former Tellico Plains chief of police, Bill Isbell.

Harkey Yates was a fair and honest individual, who was one of the few locals who would employ recent move-ins at his family owned hardware store. It is possible that a fall from the roof of his recreational vehicle on Christmas eve may have caused his untimely death.

Many were surprised that Grady Judd would announce his arrival (like a visiting Head of State), "Polk County Florida Sheriff Grady Judd"--when the purpose of his visit was to pay homage to Harkey Yates. Charles Hall who attended said "he did not like what the guy had to say...the first part was O K, (the eulogy part), but did not like the rest, which had politics."

In his home turf, The Ledger comments on Judd's publicity stunts, self-promotional videos, and news designed to get some face time in the media. An article in the New York Times and ABC News about the Ellenbeth Wachs case, which was dropped by the district attorney, mentions "a rogue sheriff who abuses his authority: failed to "respect the separation of Church and State" by arresting her several times on "frivolous criminal charges."
Michelle Williams, the City manager of Mt. Pleasant TN. dealt with separation of church and state issues without having a SWAT team show up at her house...
The Founders of the U.S. Constitution specified "no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States." (Article 6, section 3)

Where does the Tennessee-Florida connection begin?—it may have started with Bill Isbell years ago, but records show that Grady C. Judd Jr., in 2006 and 2008 purchased land in the Coker Creek area of Monroe County--which was placed in a living trust.

This Tennessee-Florida connection may explain why there were so many out-of-towners during the final days of the primary in the 2010 Monroe County Sheriff's election--in which Judd's protégé, candidate Bill Isbell--was soundly defeated. Who knows—can we ever expect a Grady Judd for Sheriff campaign here in Monroe County— maybe, When Pigs Fly...

Despite all the occasional bad press you may hear about Monroe County--just about anyone in congested, crime-ridden, Polk County Florida would gladly (if they could), trade places and move to Monroe County. God Bless Harkey Yates and Monroe County TN.

What not to do in New York City: TN tourist 'dumb and dangerous'

2011-12-30T11:11:00.007-05:00

While visiting New York for a job interview, Meredith a medical student, went to the World Trade Center 9/11 memorial. Upon seeing a placard that said "No Guns allowed," she remembered she had a loaded .32 caliber pistol in her purse.

lets check the gun and cocaine first

Having a valid TN gun permit, she figured she would ask a police officer how and where she could check it. She was immediately arrested. The cops also found two envelopes of what they say was cocaine in her purse, which she alleged was crushed aspirin used to treat headaches.

New York does not recognize out-of-state concealed weapons permits--furthermore, security is so tight in and around the 9/11 memorial that even retired cops are not allowed to bring in handguns. The local media has been less than kind, describing her as one dumb and dangerous lady. She was arrested on a single felony count of carrying a loaded firearm in Manhattan, and posted $2,000 bond.

Chief Bryan Graves warns: 'it's not time to celebrate' global conflicts continue

2011-12-19T14:48:00.029-05:00

Recently back from his second military tour this year, Monroe County Sheriff Chief Deputy Bryan Graves' comments mirror the sentiments of other military experts who warn—even if the war in Iraq is over--Global conflicts continue.

Spy drone seized by Iran

Robert Baer, a longtime CIA analyst who spent over two decades in the Middle East is predicting that Israel will bomb Iran in the near future, which would likely drag the United States into another large scale war—just when returning veterans arrive home from (what officially marks), the end of the war in Iraq. See Harry Kreisler and Robert Baer Video--Dealing with Iran.

Update 12/28/2011--Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz to international oil shipments if sanctions are placed on Iranian oil exports.

Confidential sources in Israel have publicly warned that Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak are determined to go to war with Iran.

Former Israeli Intelligence chief Meir Dagan has said there is almost “near certainty” that Israel is planning an attack on Iran, which Israel hopes would “draw the United States into the conflict.”

It would be a nightmare scenario--the Israeli air force would attack "Natanz and other nuclear facilities” to degrade their capabilities. The Iranians would strike back: in Basra, Baghdad, and other key military targets in Israel. The United States would come into the conflict with attacks on Iranian targets. It's a nightmare scenario. We don't have enough troops in the Middle East to fight a war like that." Baer added, "I think we are looking into the abyss."

The recent downing of a U.S spy drone shows Iran would be a formidable opponent. The Christian Science Monitor interviewed an Iranian engineer who claims that Iran managed to jam the drone’s electronic communication links by forcing it to shift into autopilot mode. When the drone (allegedly) kicked into autopilot mode--the engineer claims Iran spoofed the drone’s GPS system with false coordinates, enabling them to "electronically ambush" the drone--fooling it into thinking it was close to home, and land it in Iran without damage.

Life after Isbell: does Tellico Plains PD even need a part-time secretary?

2011-12-07T12:14:00.023-05:00

Before the former TPPD chief of police Bill Isbell's tenure, The Tellico Plains Police Department did not have a secretary--now the secretary position has been cut to part-time. Confronting budget deficits, the town has been forced to eliminate wasteful spending. See 2012 Update of TN Comptroller audit.

Would Tellico Plains benefit from adopting some of the 'old ways' in dealing with cost-saving measures? Most reasonable people agree that going back to some of the 'pre-Isbell era' ways of doing things, would benefit the town. Here are some ideas...

Have TPPD Chief Tonia Norwood answer the phone in the morning; if she has to leave the office--the calls are (as they have always been when no one is in the office), call forwarded to the Monroe County Dispatcher. This would not be a drop in status for Chief Norwood--former Monroe County Sheriff Doug Watson was known to personally answer the phone at the sheriff's office in the early morning hours. The use of a secretary in the TPPD, is a luxury that is not necessary.
Even if there is only one TPPD officer on duty, there is back-up in emergencies--TPPD has always used the Monroe County Sheriff's radio frequency. The TPPD is essentially an extension of the MCSD, (using the same county jail, courthouse, and radio dispatchers). It was the former chief of police's yearn for grandiosity, (just like his mentor Grady Judd),--to overly "citify" Tellico Plains--and perhaps make it appear as a larger metropolis than it really is--with a larger budget than it can pay for.
Post a sign at the base of the staircase of the TPPD office--All persons paying traffic fines are to pay fines around the corner of the building, at the City Hall office. This would make it safer than trudging up to the TPPD office--using the only access, (a difficult and dangerous staircase), which is not in compliance with public use buildings/ADA guidelines.
In the future--hire more police officers like Tellico Plains PD#506--a truly amazing young man, who on the weekends is like a "one man police force."

Judge Blackwood: Baumgartner turned the 'Drug Court into a Farce'

2011-12-03T07:55:00.010-05:00

Judge John Kerry Blackwood's long awaited ruling--allows the defendants in the Christian-Newsom murder case re-trials. The ruling may affect thousands of cases previously tried in former Judge Richard Baumgartner's courtroom.

Judge John Kerry Blackwood

The close to 10 minute ruling, in which at one point almost brings him to tears, is clearly one of the most important and difficult rulings that Judge John Kerry Blackwood has made.

He set the tone by saying, "A Judge that is presiding over a Drug Court, to try to help people beat their addiction--nothing can be more nobler than that, nothing can be nobler than that. And then, the administrator of the addicts, is not only an addict himself using drugs, but he is using a court addict to get his own." Watch the judge's ruling VIDEO.

The FBI considers Public Corruption one of it's top investigative priorities--behind only to domestic terrorism. Public corruption costs the U.S. and the public billions of dollars every year. Judge Baumgartner showed a rare glimpse of his mental depravity and possible mental illness...saying, "as we all know, the federal authorities think they are above God."

CVG Plant closing--all the more reason to re-open Cotton Pickin' Inn

2011-11-15T09:58:00.060-05:00

The recent announcement of the Tellico Plains Commercial Vehicle Group (CVG) plant closing down by the end of the year, is all the more reason to re-open the recently completed Cotton Pickin' Inn restaurant/motel.

There are conflicting stories as to why the Cotton Pickin Inn closed it's doors this summer just a few days after the grand-opening--even though the building has gone through an extensive renovation in the past two years...It is also known local realtors have recently shown the property to prospective buyers. The Tennessee State Fire Marshall's Office has confirmed that if and when this facility re-opens for business, it will be inspected.

Out-of-Town builders have been known to seek rural counties with lax codes enforcement. However, small towns in TN do have state commercial code enforcement. TN Dept. of Commerce and Insurance.

The current owners, Rose and Tim Petitt, (building contractors from Chicago), say they were busy during the few days they were open--and 'flooded with calls' of support; signaling the one of a kind restaurant/motel with a live musical performance theme could lure locals as well as customers from the tri-state area. Whatever the reasons for the shutdown--it raises questions as to why such a potentially lucrative business was closed so soon after opening.

The rear parking lot lacks parking lot guardrails, which is one of the most effective solutions to prevent run-off-road vehicles--particularly in parking areas with steep inclines--see Public use compliant access-- and Southernguardrail. The steep staircase in the rear does not meet ADA guidelines. It is a hindrance even for non-handicapped users. The lack of space may be suitable for switchback ramps. See requirements for ramps/ADA guidelines.

The 'Night Owl' from Lakeland Fla. Bill Isbell, makes prank calls at 4:A.M.

2011-10-29T12:22:00.039-04:00

Former Monroe county resident Bill Isbell may be having a serious case of separation anxiety--resorting to calling people on his cell phone during the day as well as during odd hours in the night. As the picture shows, his latest cross-country hang-up call was at 4:02 A.M.

Poor Bill, how did it all wind up like it did...one can only imagine; what if he had not run for Monroe County Sheriff so soon after being appointed Tellico Plains Chief of Police--what if he had temporarily resigned as chief of police during the 2010 election-- Bill was supposedly told he did not have to temporarily resign; not resigning during the election was considered a major blunder and really 'bad advice'--you see, the former city mayor (Bill's boss), supported the incumbent, (Sheriff Bill Bivens)--not Bill Isbell.

Bragging about an alleged involvement with the FBI or being an FBI darling, while running for sheriff in a rural east Tennessee county ['are you friggin kiddin me?']... is moronic--and shows a total political disconnect. Many long time residents have an inbred generational dislike for "city slickers" and "bureaucrats"...Having a "stint" in the FBI is how it was finally described--not retired from the FBI. Having your picture taken next to FBI director Mueller after attending a seminar--does not make one a retired FBI agent. Some locals as far back as 8 years ago, spoke of what they had been led to believe (or fear), was an alleged 'ex FBI agent in the south end of the county.

The newly elected Monroe County Mayor--Tim Yates, defeated the long time incumbent Allan Watson--without the use of a website or big billboard advertising...Bill Isbell was seen (as a recent move-in/outsider from Florida, who spoke with an "unaccented" midwestern dialect)--despite claims of having an early "stint" in Tennessee during his childhood.

In a possible attempt to measure up to his (nemesis), Polk County Florida Sheriff Grady Judd--Bill yearned for widespread media attention while as serving as the Tellico Plains Chief of Police.
However, after March 2011, his quest for power took a downward spiral--his privately registered police website was shutdown--and he resigned.

War reporter David Wood on Iraq and Afghanistan battlefield survivors

2011-10-17T22:03:00.003-04:00

"Beyond the Battlefield" is a 10 part series that examines the lives of returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, and how they are coping with their life changing injuries once they return home--as well as how the relatives and spouses are dealing with their special needs.

Learn how you can help HERE.....David Wood talks about "Beyond the Battlefield with NPR's Terry Gross HERE

Modern Day protests have a new Ally...'the Internet' levels playing field

2011-10-14T09:41:00.012-04:00

UPDATE 10/20/2011 School Officials will allow students to wear shirts in support of Straight-Gay alliances. as reported in Knoxnews.

When Sequoyah High School Senior Chris Sigler complained that he was allegedly assaulted by Principal Maurice Moser for wearing a shirt in support of Gay-Straight clubs--it began a 'Sunami like' wave of awareness and interest for the protection of civil rights. The online petition in support for an investigation now numbers over 100,000 signatures.
Sigler is in the less than 1% of the population, that will defend a right he believes was violated--for his courage, Chris should he hailed as a 'Hero.' In reality, this is not just a Pro-Gay or anti-Gay issue, the 'big picture' is nestled in a much wider scope that could have far reaching implications--affecting educational levels, new corporate investments, and commerce.

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The Protests in lower Manhattan: Lawyer Jerry Silk sets his 'BULLSEYE' on NY banks

The current protests of the group labeled as 'Occupy Wall Street' are not just taking place in the streets of lower Manhattan in New York--several large corporations are furious at big banks they feel squandered their investor-shareholder wealth in a short amount of time.

Attorney Jerry Silk represents several large institutional investors that had billions invested--in what supposedly were, 'stable' mortgage-backed securities. Many individuals that lost a large part of their pensions and retirement funds, share the same anger as the protesters in the street.

Silk says "The public wants to know how this happened, and how so much investor-shareholder wealth evaporated in such a short period of time, no one has been held accountable at this point... we have not seen any significant or meaningful action by the SEC or the Justice Dept against the main players in this area...it has created, I think, an enormous amount of concern at the institutional investor level as well as the protester level."

Angry Comments on Topix may be linked to the Isbell/Charest cartel

2011-09-25T17:23:00.028-04:00

Angry comments posted in the local Topix website within the last few months; include some that are outright threats. The internet rants display an intolerance for the right of freedom of expression: as in, taking photographs, videos, or merely writing and making comments on issues that the mainstream media is reluctant to cover.

September marks 6 yr. Anniversary

Many Coker Creek TN. residents were surprised when it was learned that Alabama transplant Don Charest was wearing a Tellico Plains Police Uniform in 2010. Co-Founder of the Coker Creek Welcome Center, Charest had previously been involved in the financial planning business in Charest Company, LLP-Financial Planners with his wife Linda and their son Jonathan--not Police work...Don Charest is one of the least likely individuals that anyone would have ever imagined in a police uniform, unless there was a motive and opportunity.

In September of 2005, during the initial days and months of local resident Franny Graham's disappearance--(Graham lived less than a 1/4 mile from the Coker Creek Welcome Center)...Charest and his Welcome Center staff never even posted one 'missing persons poster'--in or around the small contract facility post office/welcome center--that they operate with the help of government grants... Even more surprising--the newly hired postal clerk, a recent move-in in 2006, said she was never told of the Franny Graham disappearance.

There is clear evidence that former Tellico Plains chief of police Bill Isbell's association with Don Charest, was in-part, what caused former Tellico Plains mayor Roger Powers to 'go ballistic' ...when it was discovered someone had given Don Charest the keys to the Tellico Plains Police station, and issued him a police uniform.

Isbell-registered Tellico Plains Police website is Shutdown

2011-09-06T06:57:00.024-04:00

On April 9, 2008--Bill Isbell and William Wells III created a Tellico Plains Police website: A short time later, it was announced in the local media as, "the launch of the first city police website to go online in Monroe county."

As it turns out, what was supposed to be a city government website--was registered to Bill Isbell, at his personal P.O. Box in Coker Creek TN....Bill Isbell was the appointed chief of police at the time. http://who.is/whois/tellicoplainspolice.org/

This lack of oversight by the previous mayor--may be just one of many issues that the new mayor will have to address. This unusual arrangement could have been used to influence public opinion, coerce city government (by what they posted or NOT posted), or by violating the federal civil rights of suspects that had not yet been brought to trial--to benefit Bill Isbell, in the 2010 Monroe County Sheriff's election.

The website shows Shutdown/Inactive status since 8/27/2011--a week after a complaint was filed on 8/22/2011.

The Website administrator--William Wells III, (a media darling now living in Minnesota), had not posted that the Tellico Plains City Council had appointed it's first female chief of police, (Tonia Norwood), several months ago.

If you were to ask any municipal city administrator, manager, or mayor--Is your City Police website registered to the Chief of Police?...You would likely get a response of... "You must be joking."

Did former chief of police Isbell appropriate anything else that should have been in the name of the Tellico Plains Police Dept. or the City of Tellico Plains?

Arlie French for Mayor: Experience, Leadership, and Growth

2011-08-19T14:05:00.010-04:00

* Patrick Hawkins wins Tellico Plains mayoral election on September 6, 2011

Arlie says "he intends to make a difference, and help to bring about growth and prosperity for Tellico Plains."

A lifelong resident of Tellico Plains, French has been the Chief of Police and served as a Constable for eight years.

Election day for Tellico Plains is September 6--after the polls are closed, the results will be determined at the Monroe County Election Commission.

Elect Arlie French--the best choice for mayor....Experience, people skills, integrity, and someone who will command the respect of the public and city employees.

Air Evac Helicopter hits powerline near Reliance Rd. in Polk County TN

2011-08-01T19:27:00.090-04:00

Fire Chief: it was an unusual takeoff "he was actually flying into that draw"

The air evac chopper lands safely, loads 1 patient then hits a powerline en route back to Erlanger. Fire Chief Lofty says that it was not a typical takeoff.

When interviewed a couple of hours later by Chattanooga News Channel 9 Lindsay Jackson, (video on the left), he colors some of the details, suggesting the mishap on how the sun was shining.

Chief Stephen "lofty goals" Lofty says: "I actually looked, and because of the way the sun was shining back this way you could not see those cables..."

The power line cables were very close to the ground, at a considerable distance from the landing zone, in airspace that the pilot should not have been flying in...see how far and how close to ground the power lines were in this wide angle and zoom VIDEO.

Chief Deputy Bryan Graves recovers after deer vs. motorcycle accident

2011-07-11T12:43:00.006-04:00

Monroe County Sheriff Chief Deputy Bryan Graves is recovering from what could have been, and (statistically) is a much more serious accident; which often times results in a fatality or spinal cord injury.

On Sunday night, while driving his motorcycle to a National Guard Armory drill to prepare for what would have been his 3rd deployment overseas, Bryan says he was--"less than 300' feet from the driveway, a deer jumped out beside me, and run beside me for just a minute, and then it jumped in front of me and swept the front wheel out."

The community sends thoughts and prayers to Chief Deputy Graves for a safe recovery. Chief Deputy Graves is one of the greatest assets in the Monroe County Sheriff's Dept., and certainly one of the best high profile departmental choices Sheriff Bill Bivens has made.

Town similar to Tellico Plains Fires its entire Police Force

2011-06-22T11:46:00.005-04:00

When faced with 'out of control' insubordination and poor performance from the town's police dept.,, the small town of Troy, Texas fired the entire police force. The Waco Tribune Herald reported that the Troy City Council had fired police chief David Seward, and the other 3 officers which made up the entire police dept.

Mayor Sammy Warren said, "We are not going to let that department run by itself, we are going to have a police department to be proud of again."
The town of around 1,400 residents relied on the county Sheriff's Dept., until they hired a new police chief and patrol officers.

A similar situation in Tellico Plains would not even cause a 'hiccup' in service, since all 911 calls within the city limits have always been dispatched to the Monroe County Sheriff's dispatcher. See and hear how outgoing Mayor Powers finally stood up to rogue cops in the Tellico Plains Police Dept, "something mayor Powers should have done much earlier."

Bill Isbell's ties with 'alleged' reserve Police officer Charest revealed

2011-06-07T08:48:00.108-04:00

Interview with Mayor Powers: No one in the TPPD would 'fess up'--major shake-up, Isbell and others are history.

Isbell crony with E plates...How many are there?

In stark contrast to the 'sugar coated propaganda' that appeared last March over Bill isbell's resignation, it is now known a sequence of events may have led to: a 'breach of trust, insubordination, cronyism, and clearly a case study in arrogance' during Bill Isbell's tenure as Tellico Plains Chief of Police.

Towards the end, lt seems Isbell had no other viable option but to 'resign'. In a phone interview on Monday June 6, 2011--Tellico Plains mayor Roger Powers said he demanded an explanation last winter, as to why a person (Don Charest) that "he had never appointed," was given a key.--Mayor Powers said, "Actually, I never put him on the reserve," and the issue with the key, when I asked "Who gave the key?" and "no one could come up with an answer, or wouldn't tell basically."...."I did not like the way they (TPPD) handled it, and I can't have that."

Mayor Powers went on to say that Chief of Police Bill Isbell stepped down soon after the incident. Don Charest, and the all volunteer/political civilian police force were disbanded. This is not the way Bill and Grady Judd hoped things would turn out. Polk County Florida sheriff Grady Judd has been an overt and covert player in Bill's stint in Tennessee.

Don Charest, an Isbell crony and Coker Creek resident, who helped in the failed 2010 Isbell for Sheriff campaign, displayed E plates on 2 of his personal vehicles for months, even after it was clear that he was NOT a city or county reserve police officer. If there was no legal confirmation of Don Charest as a Reserve Tellico Plains Police officer, were False-Pretense Statutes violated? See the requirements to legally have E Plates on a personal vehicle.

See what happened in a small Missouri town when a small town Mayor was conned by Bill Jakob, a man that had no prior police experience and was signed on as a police officer.

A few days after this web posting was shared with the public, Mayor Powers made his final 'swan song' in the local media to announce his retirement-- Mayor Powers said he would not run for re-election.

Bill Isbell's wife sues Monroe County in Federal Court

2011-05-28T18:55:00.009-04:00

The ex-Tellico Plains Chief of Police's wife, Marie Anne Isbell, filed a federal lawsuit which names Monroe County, and the newly appointed EMS Director Randy White as defendants.

The plaintiff (Isbell), alleges she was not re-hired by Monroe County EMS after the new EMS Director was appointed,....in part because her husband (Bill Isbell), did not support Randy White for Sheriff in the general election last year.

The lawsuit does not state any specific monetary amount--although it seeks compensation due to lost wages, pain, suffering, humiliation, and embarrassment.
You can view the entire complaint in the Justia website link below.
Isbell vs. Monroe County TN et al

Political Patronage cronies no longer eligible for E plates

2011-05-09T08:31:00.028-04:00

'Political patronage cronies' that were involved as Reserve Police officers last year, were terminated around the time of Bill Isbell's termination from the TPPD. Those not listed in the roster of the TPPD, are not eligible to have E Plates on their personal vehicles.

Driving with E Plates has many perks--it virtually guarantees you will not get a 'speeding ticket', .....displaying E plates on a personal vehicle has also been used as a ploy by criminals to pose as fake cops. Many police officers choose to NOT have Eplates on their personal vehicles--"It's like bringing your job home and it compromises your privacy," one veteran law officer commented.

To have E Plates on a personal vehicle, (like the one in the picture) you must be an active member of a Police Dept., or part of Emergency medical personnel.

Patronage is the support that an individual gives to someone to benefit their political aspirations. Some types of Political patronage may violate laws or ethics codes, such as when political leaders engage in nepotism (hiring family members) and cronyism.

High-tech cameras have evolved to aid Law Enforcement

2011-04-27T10:42:00.004-04:00

To aid law enforcement agencies combat crime, surveillance cameras are being used as more than just 'red light' cameras. Shotspotter technology is an observation system that notifies police whenever a gun has been fired, and where the gunshot occurred.

In high density areas, this advanced technology uses cameras as well as audible sensors, all connected to the computer systems database. It is a self-learning system that differentiates between a car backfiring, firecrackers, or construction noise.

When the system identifies that gunfire has been heard, it notifies the control room. In seconds, important information can be obtained, as in: the suspects leaving the area, a license plate, or make and model of a fleeing vehicle.

Protecting the Environment in East Tennessee

2011-04-26T09:28:00.006-04:00

Working across the entire state of Tennessee, the Nature Conservancy has been involved in preserving over 270,000 acres.

This includes helping to create State Natural areas, State Wildlife areas, as well as State Wildlife refuges.Picnic for the Planet is a celebration of the planet we live on, the food it provides and the people we share it with. In short, the planet does a lot for us — we should take it out for lunch.

On and around Earth Day 2011 (April 22), people all around the world will be stepping outside and heading to their favorite outdoor spot to enjoy good food in the company of great people.

Make an online reservation for an inn or cabin.

Find out about an upcoming event at a nearby State Park.

Learn about department outreach activities.

Tellico Plains Police Chief Bill Isbell resigns: moves back to Florida

2011-03-31T16:33:00.079-04:00

Did Bill Isbell 'not apply for federal grants' to benefit his political ambitions?

Bill Isbell announced that he resigned as Tellico Plains Chief of Police on Monday March 21, 2011: his last day was March 31, 2011. Update of 2012 Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury report.

In 2010, Isbell aspired to become Monroe County Sheriff... the number one spot in Monroe County Law Enforcement. No other appointed Chief of Police in Monroe County politics had ever used internet media advertising before the 2010 Monroe County Sheriff's election,--in which the Isbell camp failed miserably, Isbell did not make it past the primary.

Was the extensive interior remodeling in the TPPD, (done in the last four years) a sound investment? The term of 'Functional Obsolescence' comes to mind even after all the money spent during Isbell's tenure as Chief of Police. Would the TPPD office meet the modern standards for public use buildings as per federal guidelines?

The TPPD office is on the second story of a building that was built over 70 years ago. Applying for a Federal grant to build a 'new police station' would have been a more prudent way to serve the long term interests of Tellico Plains. See the ADA guidelines that were ignored while money was spent on an outdated building....

By not applying for, and not receiving Federal grant money, Bill Isbell was able to say to the city aldermen and the mayor: The TPPD 'did not receive any federal grants,' so he (Bill Isbell) was not in violation of the Hatch Act when he stayed on as chief of police, while as a candidate for for Sheriff in 2010.

A call to Tellico Plains mayor Roger Powers on June 6, 2011 revealed details of a power struggle that came to a head--which likely led to Isbell's 'last rodeo' as Chief of Police: 'someone' had given a political crony keys and access to TPPD Police station, without the OK from Mayor Powers.

With the help of consultant Williams Wells III, and his buddy Polk county Florida sheriff Grady Judd, his tenure was awash in psychological flummery and potent imagery. The Isbell campaign for Sheriff slogan read-- "You deserve professional law enforcement."

Isbell Party Video deleted from Chamber of Commerce YouTube Channel

2011-03-13T11:01:00.014-04:00

A YouTube video posted by the Ex-Chamber of Commerce president William Wells III, (a friend/consultant of Bill Isbell's ), was deleted from the Chamber of Commerce YouTube Channel--

Posted a few months before the 2010 County Election season got underway, Isbell's birthday party video had nothing to do with Monroe County Chamber of Commerce business, and 'reeked of impropriety' since it gave the appearance of a 'political slant' for the benefit of the Isbell for Sheriff campaign.

Cops posing as fake Attorneys has 'ruffled the feathers' of the A.B.A.

2011-03-10T10:56:00.037-05:00

Monroe County detectives Pat Henry and Doug Brannon have attained National media celebrity status with their 2008 stunt--posing as attorneys in order to get information from a suspect that was in custody in the Monroe County Jail. As seen in Reason.com and the American Bar Association Journal.

The State of Tennessee ruled that the conduct of the Monroe County Sheriff's detectives was "so egregious that it profoundly interfered with the defendant's right to counsel under the state and federal constitutions."

The Court of Criminal Appeals ruled that the circumstances surrounding the case were so shocking, that Judge James Witt called the detectives actions "egregious, illegal, and abhorrent."

In an interesting turn of events, Det. Brannon, (the only actor in the scandal that did not resign) is profiled in a local news link on 4/11/2011giving advice to fraud victims -----Compare two Law Enforcement scams: Ethicsalarms.com

William Wells III is Out as Chamber President: Monroe County looks to the Future

2011-01-21T09:44:00.111-05:00

The search for a new President of the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce by the Board of Commissioners comes as 'no surprise'.....William Wells III was told when he returned from the Christmas holiday that the Board of Commissioners would be seeking a new Chamber President....
Jeanne Carter Monroe County Chamber of Commerce administrative assistant confirmed that William Wells is no longer the Chamber president--Miss Carter said the Board of Commissioners is taking applications for the position of Chamber President. One of the Commissioners is serving as interim President and CEO.

William Wells was not available for comment.

When asked about the whereabouts of William Wells III on 1/22/2011, a friend commented: there's been no recent sightings of him, and said: "He moved to Minnesota..."

Update 6/23/2011....William Wells III is in the Farmington MN, area seeking work as a Business Social Media Coach/Presenter and internet consultant.... 6 months after moving from Monroe County TN, he says on a 'Tweet'... "Wondering if you can help my Fiancee and I find a house or townhome...looking in and around the "Hastings" area. Somewhere between $500 and $900. Currently in the Farmington area. She works in Woodbury and we'd like to find something closer to help shorten the commute."

DA Bebb stands firm: No pre-trial Media Circus in the Jim Miller Murder Investigation

2010-11-13T08:46:00.037-05:00

District Attorney General Steve Bebb puts media on notice.....The Jim Miller Murder investigation will not be a Media Circus of pre-trial leaks that could hinder the efforts of the prosecution and the defense.

An Autopsy report released Wednesday Nov. 17th.....has two pages of case sensitive information that was not revealed to the public. The publicly disclosed update of the Investigation is taking 'a professional law enforcement protocol'...it is in stark contrast from the turn of events of last summer, when propaganda and leaks to the media, turned into '4 Days in the spotlight' for Captain Kenny Hope ....Hope was hounded by a media frenzy at his home, and via phone calls; ..... 4 days of numerous public comments was seen as a 'fruitless effort' to exculpate himself through the media.

Hope posted several internet rants on his personal Robert Kenny Hope FaceBook account while still employed by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office: he clearly aimed to point the guilt elsewhere. POMICS, (Post Offense Manipulation of Investigative Communications), is a form of communications used to convince the public, the media, and investigators that the person publicly accused is innocent. While as a suspect, Hope vented his anger towards those he believed were the cause of him being unjustly investigated: one of his most bizarre comments is an all upper case rant, without any punctuation.

"FALSE PROPHETS HAVE GOT ME IN QUESTIONING ON A MURDER CASE I HAVE A

PROBLEM WITH POLITICS DIRTY DIRTY TRICK THE LYING MAFIA IS TRYING THEIR BEST TO MAKE ME LOOK LIKE A MURDERER BUT I CAN ACCOUNT FOR WHERE I WAS AT ITS JUST REVENGEFUL POLITICS FOR THE RESULTS OF THE LAST SHERIFF'S RACE BUT GOD KNOWS THE TRUTH AND YOU DO TOO MAFIA START YOUR RUMORS BUT WE ALL KNOW WHO STARTED THESE RUMORS."

Probe of Questionable Talent in Dept. of Finance

2010-10-13T08:12:00.013-04:00

Many residents who have been victims of drivers under the influence, believe Monroe County Finance Department Director Brian Tallent received a 'slap in the hand' -- after being charged with 2 DUI's in the same weekend.

Mayor Tim Yates made a motion to terminate BT (Brian Tallent), during a meeting of the finance committee on Tuesday, October 12,....a recent probe shows BT made several purchases that are un-accounted for, or were not received by the county departments for which said items were purchased. BT resigned on Tuesday Oct.19, at the monthly meeting of the County Commission.

Sheriff Bill Bivens released this statement on Tallent's arrest."It is very unfortunate that this happened. Obviously, Brian has some personal issues that he must directly face. Brian, like many others, was held over as an auxiliary with the sheriff's office when the administration changed. He has remained on the list as an auxiliary officer and was inactive and has not worked with the current administration. In light of the current situation, Brian will be removed from the list of auxiliaries.

Six Year Anniversary of the Franny Graham Disappearance

2010-09-06T11:13:00.018-04:00

September 18th, 2011 will mark the 6 year anniversary of long-time Coker Creek resident Franny Graham.

Graham lived in a small cedar shake house with her companion Floyd Dockery; she officially remained a "missing person," until her skeletal remains were identified on 12/17/2009.

Make sure to read and learn about the Franny Graham case before you are persuaded to join any Coker Creek Clubs or Cliques.

Franny Graham Website
        Franny Graham was a regular at local Ruritan Club
Graham DNA results identified
   Uncle of Suspect wants resolution in Fanny Graham case

The Physical Effects of Anger

2010-08-26T12:41:00.003-04:00

Anger is a powerful emotion. If it isn't handled appropriately, it may have destructive results for both you and your loved ones. Uncontrolled anger can lead to arguments, physical fights, physical abuse, assault and self-harm. On the other hand, well managed anger can be a useful emotion that can bring about positive changes.

People often describe anger as a wave that sweeps over them. Like the forces of nature that send breakers crashing to the shore, anger can surprise us with a sudden destructive force.

Anger's physical side effects explain why you frequently see studies about the damage this emotion can do to our bodies. In one study of almost 13,000 subjects, individuals with the highest levels of anger had twice the risk of coronary artery disease, and three times the risk of having a heart attack.

New Era of Hope for Monroe County

2010-08-20T02:37:00.027-04:00

As per an official press release from MCSD, "Captain Kenny Hope's employment with the Monroe County Sheriff's Dept was terminated on August 18, 2010."

In a way, this comes as no surprise....after being cleared as suspect in the Jim Miller murder, Hope's "Off the Wall remark" to the news media foretold the Prophecy of his own demise...claiming on 7/22/2010 " My Career has been Ruined for NO REASON." Kenny Hope's numerous comments to the media and intense public scrutiny may have rattled him enough to nearly go "Off the Deep End."

Police officers that act like they entitled to be free from public scrutiny, are living in a dream world. Police Officers like the general public, can commit crimes and are not Above the Law...click on "When a Serial Rapist wears a Badge."

Oddly enough, Kenny Hope's phone voice mail greeting started with, "You have the right to remain Silent"....had he used his own advice before and after being cleared as a Suspect....he might still be a Law Enforcement Officer. Maybe in time, Kenny Hope will understand that the The Fifth Amendment (the right to not be a witness against yourself), is more than a catchy phrase/voice mail greeting.

A month later (3 weeks after he was cleared as a suspect), Hope was allegedly found in Madisonville outside a woman's home holding a club and smelling of liquor. MORE from Advocate and Democrat. This is a reminder that

"Suspects are presumed to be Innocent"....."Suspects are not presumed to be Intelligent."

Tim Yates says: "The People of Monroe County have Spoken"

2010-08-08T15:56:00.006-04:00

Tim Yates defeats Allan Watson in the General Election for Monroe County Mayor.....Tim is known to have knocked on over 1,000 doors around the County to get his message out in a grass roots face-to-face tactic that was successful... Without the use of a website or big billboard advertising, Tim listed his campaign goals in the local papers only a couple of weeks before the election....It looks like the "writing was on the wall" for Allan Watson.

8/24/2011...Mayor Tim Yates has shown that his campaign goals were not empty promises... Some of the new changes include the appointment of a new EMS Director, Finance Director, and a feasibility study to determine where and how a new jail facility for the county will be built. Generally, feasibility studies precede technical development and project implementation.

Arthur Dockery Wanted for Filing False Police Report

2009-12-19T16:20:00.008-05:00

Arthur Dockery Wanted for Failure to Appear in Filing of False Police Report case.

Arthur Dockery, 57, claims he and the woman who had lived with his father for the past 24 years on Hwy 68 in Coker Creek TN.were kidnapped and taken in separate vans and he was held by a woman who held him captive as a sexual slave for just under a week. see VIDEO

Dockery tells of a redhead that stripped off his clothes and tied him with Velcro strips on a hook in the van. Dockery alleged that the woman masturbated him twice a day until he escaped. He claims he managed to escape several days later and doesn't know what happened to Graham. Blount County Sheriff's Office investigators were able to determine that Dockery made a cell phone call to his sister from the Mount Vernon, Ill., area about 12 hours after he said he was kidnapped but found "several holes" in his story. He has been charged with filing a false police report and there is a warrant for his arrest for failure to appear. Authorities in Illinois on 12/17/2009--made a DNA match of the remains of Franny Graham

FRANNY GRAHAM WEBSITE

http://www.thedailytimes.com/article/20091218/NEWS/312189978

http://www.wate.com/Global/story.asp?S=11697129

http://www.wbir.net/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=108257&catid=2