Roane County government and top officials are facing a pair of federal lawsuits filed in Knoxville, centering on allegations of public records violations, election irregularities, and wrongful termination.

Both lawsuits were filed on August 3rd in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee and are being handled by Knoxville attorney Arthur K. Knight.

1. The Mullins Lawsuit

Former county executive candidate Brian Mullins has filed a suit against the county, the county mayor, and the deputy commissioner, seeking $5 million in damages.

• Mullins alleges he was repeatedly denied public records and charged excessive costs to obtain them.

• The complaint also claims multiple election irregularities occurred during the cycle.

2. The Reinhardt Lawsuit

Former records department employee Craig Reinhardt, who was fired on March 24th, filed the second suit.

• Reinhardt alleges his constitutional rights were violated, claiming he was terminated due to his sexual orientation and his support for Brian Mullins in the May 5th primary.

• In response, County Mayor Cresswell stated that Reinhardt was actually terminated for insubordination.

Key Takeaway: Local officials have not yet issued comprehensive statements addressing all allegations in the active litigation.

Would you like to know more about the specific legal procedures these types of federal civil rights lawsuits typically follow?