CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The reasoning for Montgomery County Sheriff John Fuson’s seemingly abrupt decision to end the booking log still seems to be in question by the public.
Though Fuson has garnered much support for this new decision, many believed it was personally motivated by his daughter, Sarah Fuson.
TBI investigation
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation released the following statement confirming the ongoing investigation involving the sheriff’s daughter:
“At the request of District Attorney General Robert Nash, TBI special agents are investigating the actions of Sarah Fuson in relation to a reported instance of suspected child abuse that occurred at her place of employment, a daycare center in Montgomery County. The investigation remains active and ongoing,” said Josh DeVine, TBI Commnications Director.
Fuson provided a statement on Friday regarding the allegations and the timing of the decision to end the booking log.
“Without a doubt, removing the booking log from our website has been the most controversial decision of my tenure. Shying away from doing the right thing is not something that I will do. This is true regardless of what may be going on in my personal life or what is going on in the personal lives of every person that has been posted on our website,” Fuson said.
Fuson: ‘Nothing short of bullying’
“The fact that my daughter has found herself in the crosshairs of an investigation was not the sole reason for removing the mugshots from our website. Discussions regarding the removal of mugshots from the website have occurred since becoming Sheriff. Evaluating the benefit of good policy versus the pain, ridicule, embarrassment, and prejudgment that has steadily increased on social media, which is directly related to posting these mugshots, is in totality the reason for removing them.”
Fuson went on to say that the timing of this decision to remove the mugshots carries the same level of concern for his daughter and family as every other person and their families. He said that many people have seen how individuals and “certain agenda-driven organizations” disseminate cruel and vile criticism along with mugshots.
“This has overwhelmingly become nothing short of bullying, and entertainment for bullies,” Fuson said.
Currently, Sarah Fuson has not been arrested or charged with anything.
“I will not comment on the circumstances of the investigation involving my daughter, other than saying that due to my position, she has been more harshly scrutinized, shamed, and prejudged. This is not fair to her or my family. As any father would do, I WILL do everything that I can to support and protect her. I understand the investigative and legal procedures and will use that experience.”