No Criminal Charges Possible Following Audit of South Roane Volunteer Fire Department Mismanagement

Response from District Attorney General Russell Johnson

The recent Comptroller’s report on the investigative audit of the South Roane County Volunteer Fire Department (SRCVFD) has raised serious concerns about financial mismanagement and potential theft involving the department’s former chief. The report highlights misuse of funds that should alarm citizens who donate to SRCVFD and county leaders who provide financial support to the department.

However, despite the disturbing findings, the amounts in question fall below the threshold for felony theft and are classified as misdemeanors. Additionally, the statute of limitations on these thefts has expired, as they occurred more than a year before the audit’s completion and the report’s release. This time delay also prevents the possibility of charges of official misconduct.

Although the report identified some purchases as “questionable,” without solid evidence, these findings do not meet the required burden of proof for prosecution in Tennessee. As a result, no criminal charges will be pursued in this matter.

Former Fire Chief Misappropriated Funds at South Roane County Volunteer Fire Department