Resolution Filed For Clerk's Removal Amended - WSMV News 4

Resolution Filed For Clerk's Removal Amended

It appears there's more than one way to oust a publicly elected official like Criminal Court Clerk David Torrence, including through the courts.

Torrence's short work weeks have been the focus of Channel 4 I-Team investigations. The I-Team also found Torrence he hasn't been telling the city how his office has been spending more than $3 million in taxpayer money each year.

A resolution calling for Torrence to either resign or be removed from office has now been filed and amended. This resolution came after the I-Team's initial investigation showed Torrence not working half of last year and saying he only works three days a week.

The I-Team also found him working in his yard during the day and using his county-issued car to run errands, such as to the liquor store, during the work week.

Metro Councilman Charlie Tygard drew up the resolution, which called for Torrence to either resign or have the district attorney general or the state attorney general remove him from office.

But in the amended resolution that was filed Wednesday, there is a provision added that states that under the Tennessee Constitution, the Criminal Court can remove its clerk for incapacity, neglect of duty or misbehavior in office.

Presiding Judge Joe Binkley said he hadn't seen the resolution and needed time to investigate it.

The resolution will be heard Tuesday, the same day Torrence is scheduled to go before the council and discuss his budget.

The city said it has heard nothing from Torrence or his office after the I-Team's story about Torrence's office not providing the city with monthly spending reports.