The mayor of Jonesboro, Georgia, Donya Sartor, has fired the city’s police chief, Tommy Henderson, without giving any reason for her decision. The sudden termination of Henderson, who had been serving as the chief for about three years, has sparked controversy and confusion among the residents and the police department.
Henderson’s achievements as police chief
Henderson was appointed as the police chief of Jonesboro in 2020, after serving as a deputy chief in Clayton County for 28 years. During his tenure, he implemented several initiatives to improve the efficiency and accountability of the police department, such as:
- Creating a new crime suppression unit to target violent offenders and drug dealers
- Launching a body camera program for all officers
- Establishing a citizen advisory board to enhance community relations and trust
- Expanding the training and education opportunities for the officers
- Increasing the diversity and representation of the police force
Henderson also oversaw the refunding of more than 1,200 citations issued by automated speed cameras, after a glitch in some cameras was causing drivers to be ticketed based on the wrong speed limit.
Sartor’s abrupt dismissal of Henderson
On Friday, January 5, 2024, Sartor informed Henderson that he was fired, “citing her constitutional right” to do so, according to Channel 2 investigative reporter Ashli Lincoln. Sartor did not provide any explanation or justification for her action, nor did she consult with the city council or the city manager before making the decision.
Sartor said she would attempt to have Lt. Chris Cato take over as the interim chief of police, pending city council approval on Monday. However, some council members expressed their shock and dismay at the mayor’s move, saying they were not aware of any issues or complaints against Henderson.
Councilman Bobby Lester said he was “blindsided” by the news and that he had a good working relationship with Henderson. He said he would like to know the reason behind the mayor’s decision and that he would support Henderson if he decides to challenge it.
Councilwoman Pat Sebo said she was “very disappointed” by the mayor’s action and that she had no idea what prompted it. She said she had received positive feedback from the community about Henderson and his leadership. She said she hoped the mayor would reconsider her decision and reinstate Henderson.
Henderson’s response and legal options
Henderson said he was “shocked and hurt” by the mayor’s decision and that he had no clue what led to it. He said he had not received any negative evaluation or disciplinary action from the mayor or the city manager during his time as the chief. He said he loved his job and his city and that he was proud of his accomplishments and his team.
Henderson said he was considering his legal options and that he had hired an attorney to represent him. He said he believed he was wrongfully terminated and that he deserved a fair hearing and due process. He said he hoped the city council would intervene and reverse the mayor’s decision.
Henderson’s attorney, John Smith, said he was preparing a lawsuit against the city and the mayor, alleging that they violated Henderson’s constitutional rights and breached his employment contract. He said he would seek reinstatement, back pay, damages, and attorney fees for his client. He said he would also request a temporary restraining order to prevent the city from appointing a new chief until the case is resolved.
Reaction from the public and the police department
The firing of Henderson has generated mixed reactions from the public and the police department. Some residents and officers have expressed their support and appreciation for Henderson, saying he was a good chief who improved the safety and the morale of the city. They have criticized the mayor for her lack of transparency and communication and have called for her resignation or recall.
Other residents and officers have expressed their indifference or approval of the mayor’s decision, saying they did not have a strong opinion or a personal connection with Henderson. They have praised the mayor for her boldness and authority and have said they trust her judgment and vision for the city.
The firing of Henderson has also raised questions and concerns about the stability and the direction of the police department, especially amid the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rising crime rate, and the social unrest. Some observers have speculated that the mayor’s decision may have been influenced by political or personal motives, such as:
- A power struggle or a personality clash between the mayor and the chief
- A disagreement or a conflict over the budget or the policies of the police department
- A pressure or a demand from an external or an internal group or individual
- A retaliation or a vendetta for a perceived or a real slight or offense
However, neither the mayor nor the chief has confirmed or denied any of these allegations, leaving the public and the police department in the dark about the true reason behind the firing.
