A candidate for the Rutherford County School Board was arrested on a charge of theft of property under $1,000.
Charles Isbell, who is running against Tammy Sharp for School Board Zone 1, was arrested on Monday for allegedly removing campaign signs, according to Sharp.
“I can confirm that my opponent was arrested and charged with theft of property under $1,000 following the reported removal of campaign signs over the weekend,” Sharp said. “That is a serious charge, and I will respect the legal process as it moves forward.”
Isbell said the charge was dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Online records show the case was disposed of on Monday, though the records do not specify the reason.
Sharp, a Republican, also discussed another incident where she was allegedly blocked in a driveway while putting up campaign signs, then allegedly followed by a car, until law enforcement stepped in and conducted a traffic stop.
Sharp, who has been on the school board since 2018, said an “official report was filed” and that “she fully cooperated” with law enforcement. Sharp did not name the person in the press release, but alleged that her opponent was the one following her in a car. The only other Republican candidate to declare for the race is Isbell.
“This kind of behavior is unacceptable. It is not a good look for anyone seeking a position of leadership on the school board,” Sharp said. “We are supposed to set an example for our students, not create situations that involve law enforcement.”
“Based on my own experience and what I have been made aware of in recent months, this appears consistent with a troubling pattern of behavior. Voters deserve to take that into consideration,” she added.
As a candidate, Sharp said she will serve Rutherford County students, support its teachers, and strengthen its schools.
“My campaign will remain focused on integrity, accountability, and respect for our community,” she said.
The primary race between Sharp and Isbell who are running for Zone 1 will be on May 5th.
The Tennessee Star reached out to Isbell’s campaign, but did not hear back before press time.
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Zachery Schmidt is the digital editor of The Star News Network. Email tips to Zachery at [email protected].
Photo “Charles Isbell” by Charles Isbell.
