Former director for McNairy Co. Ag Center faces theft charges, more

SELMER, Tenn. — Former director of the McNairy County Ag Event Center, Valerie Knight, is currently facing charges.

According to the affidavit between the State of Tennessee versus Valerie Knight, Knight is being charged with theft of property, burglary other than habitation, tampering with or fabricating evidence, destruction of and tampering with government property, and fraud by destruction of valuable papers with intent.

The 1st count of theft amounts average between $2,300 to $10,000.

The prosecutor for this case is Investigator Tommy White for the 25th Judicial District Attorney Mark Davidson.

We were able to speak briefly with McNairy County Mayor Larry Smith who told us, while he’s not permitted to speak on the matter at this time, he did say that Valerie Knight was booked July 8 and has since been bonded out. According to sources, Knight is expected to appear for an arraignment next month in August. Mayor Smith says he’s fortunate to have new director, Haley Stanfield, fill her position.

D.A. Davidson has prohibited Mayor Smith from speaking in detail on the matter at this time.

Mayor Smith tells us she was initially terminated months ago, but not for this alleged incident, and she did not complete a full year during her employment.

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