Bethel Springs Police Officer Accused of Assault
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BETHEL SPRINGS, Tenn- A West Tennessee police officer is under scrutiny, accused of harassing and assaulting a man while off the job. Last week Benny Jennings, a part-time officer was accused of assaulting a man over the course of several months. The alleged victim said the off-duty officer punched him in the chest on different occasions because he thought he had spread rumors about him. “We need a cop with a good record,” said Meckus Atkins, a Bethel Springs resident. Bethel Springs Mayor, Kay Cox, said she is unaware of the recent allegations. She said she requested a TBI report for Officer Jennings to make sure he has a clean record; but Chief Pee Wee Sowell is the only one who can request it. Mayor Cox said he has not done so yet. Some residents said they expect more from police officers. “Honesty, courtesy, and respect for the citizens who live here is important,” said Kimberly Clemons, a Bethel Springs resident. Jennings tolld WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News he will not comment at this time. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 23.
