The news of Sheriff Robert Arnold's recent indictments on 13 charges did not sit well with officials and citizens of Rutherford County.
The sheriff was accused of profiting off of e-cigarette sales to inmates at the Rutherford County Jail.
The year-long investigation resulted in the embattled sheriff and two other defendants turning themselves in to federal court Friday morning.
"This is a terrible day for Rutherford County," Rutherford County Mayor Ernest Burgess told NewsChannel 5. "This is very disturbing."
County Mayor Burgess helped launch the investigation early last year after receiving word from someone close to the sheriff's office that Sheriff Arnold was allegedly selling e-cigarettes to inmates to make profit.
"It's completely unacceptable even if it's six dollars or $60, 000," Burgess added. "This should not be tolerated."
Burgess was concerned that the county will lose the trust of citizens. He can't help but feel the alleged actions of the Sheriff will reflect on the entire community.
"These kinds of behavior will destroy our county and state," the county mayor said.
"Leadership should be the highest of standards and if we can't do that, we can't expect anyone else to do the same."
Regardless of the indictment, Robert Arnold was still the Rutherford County sheriff unless he resigns or convicted.
