The Davidson County grand jury has recommended that a special prosecutor investigate potential criminal and civil violations within the Metro Nashville Police Department. This recommendation follows a whistleblower complaint filed last summer, which prompted the grand jury to hear testimony from both retired and current officers regarding allegations of sexual misconduct, corruption, and favoritism.
In a report submitted to the Davidson County Criminal Court Clerk’s Office, the grand jury expressed concern over evidence suggesting serious violations within the police department, stating, “We feel that there is evidence of criminal and civil violations which should be meticulously investigated.” The inquiry was initiated amid frustrations over the slow progress of an independent investigation into the allegations.
Metro Nashville Police spokesperson Don Aaron criticized the grand jury process, stating that police leadership was not given an opportunity to respond to the allegations presented. He emphasized the department’s eagerness to cooperate with future grand jury panels.
The grand jury, led by foreperson Theeda Murphy, interviewed key witnesses, including retired Detective Greta McClain and retired Captain Dhana Jones, who raised concerns about retaliation and unaddressed sexual misconduct issues within the department. The report indicated that multiple officers reported similar experiences of retaliation and interference in internal investigations.
Despite acknowledging the department’s recent implementation of a new sexual misconduct policy, the grand jury urged that more measures be taken to support past victims of misconduct. The Nashville District Attorney’s Office has not commented on the findings.
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