Lawrence County Sheriff Kenny Taylor has some strict rules for his department.

Video: Word On The Street (1/21/08)

He said it must maintain honor and integrity with the highest fiscal and ethical standards to maintain public confidence. But now Taylor is under investigation by the TBI.

It all stems from an incident last month in which Taylor's nephew, Jarrod Bradbary, was found asleep or passed out in his truck at a Lawrenceburg stop light. The motor was still running.

Officers said it took almost 40 minutes to rouse the 24-year-old.

Sheriff Taylor and his wife arrived at the scene. That's when the problems are alleged to have begun.

There were threats, accusations and cursing against the city officers by the Taylor and his wife, the local cops claim.

At the Crockett Hospital where Bradbary was taken, Bradbury was said to refuse to take a blood test on the advice of the sheriff.

Taylor also secured his nephew's release from the officers. "It's kind of a mess, but the sheriff is not involved," said Lawrence County Chief Deputy Sheriff Terry Beacham.

The sheriff said that he's been cleared of any wrongdoing, but officials said that is not true and the investigation is continuing.

The TBI investigation, requested by District Attorney Mike Bottoms, centers on whether the sheriff attempted to get a DUI dismissed against his nephew, although no DUI charge has been issued as yet.

Bradbary's case reportedly has already been presented to the local grand jury. The allegations against Taylor could be the next to be sent to the grand jury.

Bottoms and Lawrenceburg Police Chief Terry Shay declined comment.