Hardin County clerk convicted of two counts of official misconduct

HARDIN COUNTY, Tenn. — In January 2023, the Tennessee Department of Revenue became aware of inconsistencies in some transactions that were conducted in the Hardin County Clerk’s Office. The department conducted an audit, which led to a full investigation by the Department of Revenue.

During the course of the investigation, Special Agent Josh Remke discovered that Carolyn Jeanette Stricklin, the elected County Clerk of Hardin County, processed her own registration of a travel trailer on May 14, 2021. She fraudulently registered the trailer as a gift to avoid paying taxes. Special Agent Remke obtained bank documents that confirmed that Stricklin purchased the trailer for $5,500 and did not, as she claimed, receive it as a gift. 

In addition, Stricklin processed the registration of a Ford Explorer for her daughter in November 2022. She advised her daughter to complete a false Tennessee Department of Revenue Affidavit of Non–Dealer Transfer so that the vehicle could be registered without appropriate supporting documentation. In doing so, Stricklin knowingly submitted a false affidavit regarding the chain of ownership of the vehicle. Stricklin gave a written statement on April 21, 2023, admitting to the conduct giving rise to both instances of official misconduct. 

On November 13, 2023, the Hardin County Grand Jury indicted Stricklin for two (2) counts of Official Misconduct, in addition to other charges. On October 28, 2024, before Judge J. Brent Bradberry, and while under oath subject to the penalty of perjury, Stricklin admitted guilt and pled guilty to both counts. The court imposed a sentence of two (2) years for each count and ordered restitution to the Department of Revenue. Consistent with Tennessee law, Stricklin submitted her resignation at the time of the plea. Assistant District Attorneys General Michelle Pugh and Lee Sparks represented the State of Tennessee. 

“One of the fundamental duties of a county clerk is to collect taxes on the sale of vehicles, boats, and campers among other items and Ms. Stricklin failed to perform this basic function,” said District Attorney General Jody Pickens, who was appointed as a special prosecutor to handle the prosecution. “Ms. Stricklin used her office for personal gain by avoiding paying taxes on a purchase. Tennessee does not have an income tax, so the State is partially funded by these revenue transactions. By failing to perform her duties and taking advantage of her position, Ms. Stricklin deprived the citizens of Hardin County of revenue dollars that would have been used to fund their schools, emergency services, and local infrastructure. The citizens of Hardin County deserve better from their county clerk. Special Agent Remke conducted a thorough investigation, which led to successful prosecution and removal of Stricklin from office.” 

For the latest coverage on crimes in West Tennessee, click here.