BBBTV12 – An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has led to the indictment of Travis Thrasher, Chief Wastewater Operator for Oliver Springs, which spans Anderson, Morgan, and Roane Counties. The investigation began following concerns from town officials about questionable financial activity.

Investigators discovered that Thrasher misused at least $1,022 in town funds for personal purchases, including a new set of tires and auto parts that did not match any town-owned vehicles. Thrasher also used a town fuel card to buy fuel for his personal vehicles, totaling at least $2,448, claiming that a former supervisor had authorized the fuel purchases for business purposes. However, both the former town manager and former water/wastewater supervisor stated they never approved the use of the town’s fuel card for personal vehicles.

The report also flagged an additional $3,010 in questionable purchases made by other town employees, including food, auto parts, gift cards, and supplies, all lacking itemized receipts or documentation.

Thrasher reimbursed the town $3,471 on September 5, 2024, as “repayment” for personal purchases and resigned on September 13, 2024. In October 2024, a Roane County Grand Jury indicted him on charges of theft over $1,000 and official misconduct.