Sheriff John Fuson addresses rumors surrounding removal of booking log mugshots

CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – On Monday afternoon, the mugshot feature on the public booking log was suddenly removed and replaced with a statement from Montgomery County Sheriff John Fuson and many have taken to social media to speculate as to why.

“In October 2022, I appointed a new Public Information Officer. Since that appointment, we have begun making changes to our social media platforms, website, and mobile application. In the process of those changes, I felt that this was a suitable time to implement the change to remove the booking log,” Fuson said in a statement on Monday.

There has been much controversy surrounding this decision, and rumors have surfaced the Sheriff had a personal investment in this sudden change: his daughter.

“My daughter has not been arrested or accused of anything. If she were, she would be entitled to the same protections as anyone else. The example of what’s going on right now, on social media, is the perfect example of the point, and purpose of this policy change,” Fuson said Thursday afternoon. “It is despicable that my daughter has to be yet another example of this nasty, inhumane, and disgusting commentary.”

Fuson said that he knew there would be some that would disagree with the new policy. He went on to say that he has heard from many citizens who shared their stories and concerns with the practice of publishing mugshots and how it continues to negatively impact these people and their families.

“The highly negative commentary that continues to grow on social media, along with the branding that follows those accused of a crime, is heartless, inhumane, and just wrong! As a man, fellow community member, and Christian, I choose to no longer help easily facilitate this kind of activity,” he said.

Fuson said that while he has received distasteful and negative comments about the new policy, he has also received an outpouring of support for this decision.

“I continue to receive numerous positive comments and words of encouragement in support of this policy change. I want to thank all of those who have reached out and shown that support.  This is not the Montgomery County that I know, and I am confident that a majority of our citizens feel the same.”