Floyd County Sheriff Tim Burkhalter has released a statement regarding Chief Deputy Tom Caldwell’s dismissal:

“Today Floyd County Sheriff Chief Deputy Tom Caldwell was relieved of Command by myself for Conduct unbecoming of an Officer. Chief Deputy Caldwell had been ordered directly by myself to campaign off duty and not on taxpayer time. Both candidates for sheriff had been directed that this was a dismissible offense.  Chief Deputy Caldwell chose to go to a former supporter’s home yesterday, in full uniform, and question her about her allegiance to his campaign,”

Burkhalter went on to say “This citizen informed me that she was concerned about his behavior and asked that he not return. Chief Caldwell has served admirably for 14 years in his position and it is with great sadness that this happened. This is a difficult time at our office with two candidates running for office, and it’s my job to ensure our employees and citizens have the rights to choose their candidates without intimidation or fear. I will continue to answer that call. Tommy McGuire is appointed Chief Deputy for the rest of our tenure.”

We’ll have more on this story as it becomes available.

(WRGA/www.wrgarome.com)