Former McKenzie Police Chief Arrested, Accused of Theft
MCKENZIE, Tenn. – A former Carroll County police chief could be in trouble with the law himself, after being accused of stealing from his own department. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said the former chief is accused of stealing anything from street sweepers to laptop computers. When hearing the accusations, McKenzie residents had mixed emotions – including the mayor. “I was extremely shocked and surprised, and like I said, very disappointed and saddened,” said McKenzie Mayor Jill Holland. Bobby Pate was arrested, accused of stealing more than $10,000 worth of items from the department. Investigators said they found a John Deere tractor, two street sweepers, and other city items while searching Pate’s property. “It really makes me feel nervous because it’s people that we actually, and our children actually, look up to, especially, but we actually depend on,” said resident Robert Leadbetter. “I think he’s innocent until proven guilty,” said resident Charles Lawrence. “The man has to be tried before found guilty. I think he’s a good man.” Pate had just retired in December, after being with the police department for 17 years. Mayor Holland said he has had no incidents since he has been chief, but she would not comment about his record before she took office. WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News put in a public information request for Pate’s personnel file. The city said it likely will not be available until next week. For now, the city continues to search for a new police chief. “We’re looking for people who have skills, and of course a background check is a huge part of that also, and that’s something that we’re going to be doing with the candidates,” Holland said. Pate is scheduled to return to court in June.
