Martin Mayor among 3 indicted after investigation uncovers misuse of more than $450,000

Mayor Among Three Indicted After Investigation Uncovers Misuse of More Than $450,000 in City of Martin

An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has revealed widespread misuse of public funds in the City of Martin in Weakley County. The findings have led to the indictment of Mayor Randal “Randy” Brundige, Director of Economic and Community Development Bradley “Brad” Thompson, and former city employee Natalie Brundige.

• View the indictments here: #1 / #2

Investigators determined that Mayor Brundige misappropriated at least $10,925.03 by using his city-issued credit card for unauthorized travel and meal expenses. The investigation found that Brundige and Thompson frequently dined at high-end restaurants—including multiple steakhouse meals costing hundreds of dollars and including alcohol purchases—while traveling on city business.

The investigation also revealed that Brad Thompson, misappropriated at least $273,932.13. Thompson purportedly owned a company called One Consulting which worked with the city to perform grant-writing and administrative services that were already part of his official duties. He also made unauthorized credit card purchases and used city funds for luxury travel, including first-class airfare to Italy and a private dinner prepared by a personal chef.

Additionally, Natalie Brundige, a custodian and daughter of the mayor, improperly received at least $174,109 in unearned salary, leave, and benefits. Security footage and other evidence showed she routinely worked only about two hours of her scheduled eight-hour shifts but was paid as a full-time employee for more than six years.

Comptroller investigators also identified $10,391.97 in questionable credit card transactions made by Thompson, and $283.54 made by Mayor Brundige.

Based upon this investigation, on November 10, 2025, the Weakley County Grand Jury indicted:

• Mayor Randal “Randy” Brundige on four counts of theft of property over $60,000, one count of accessory after the fact, and one count of theft of property over $10,000, and four counts of official misconduct.
• Bradley “Brad” Thompson on one count of theft of property over $60,000, four counts of official misconduct, and one count of theft of property over $10,000.
• Natalie Brundige on one count of theft of property over $60,000 and one count of official misconduct.

“This case is troubling because it involves a sitting mayor and a senior city official,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “City officials must ensure strong internal controls are in place to protect public funds including monitoring credit card use, enforcing travel policies, and reviewing employee timesheets.”

To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports.

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