Rutherford Sheriff’s department official fired for misconduct

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. — A high-ranking member of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department was fired during an investigation into his relationship with a subordinate.

Maj. Eddie Farmer was fired Thursday for conduct unbecoming an officer, Sheriff Truman Jones said. A domestic assault complaint was filed against Farmer last week by deputy Jennifer Scott, which prompted an internal investigation.

“There was conduct that did not meet the standards that are required by this department or any other law enforcement agency,” Jones said.

The sheriff would not give specifics about the conduct that led to Farmer being fired, citing the continuing investigation.

Scott was fired last week. She was in training and on probationary employment status. In her complaint, Scott accused Farmer of trying to push her out of his truck.

Brad Hornsby, a lawyer for Scott, said Farmer and his client serve together in the National Guard.

“He got her a job at the sheriff’s office,” Hornsby said. “Their relationship continued eight months.”

Hornsby is seeking to have Scott reinstated to her job.

Farmer said he respected Jones’ decision.

“I think that as more facts come to light, it will give people the opportunity to see what the truth is,” Farmer said.