Town of Bruceton, police chief faces $2 million lawsuit after alleged assault
BRUCETON, Tenn. — A federal civil lawsuit was filed last week against the City of Bruceton and Police Chief Richard Crossno.
The lawsuit highlights concerns over the use of alleged excessive force by Chief Crossno and concern of freedom of expression rights.
On November 11, 2025, John Pardue attended a town meeting at city hall in Bruceton. According to the lawsuit, Pardue expressed concerns of corrupt police practices and an alderwomen’s abuse of power.
He claimed at the meeting that he had been harassed by Alderwoman Renee Ford-Ward for many years.
The lawsuit also states that Ford-Ward had trespassed on Pardue’s property and he had called the police and wanted a criminal warrant.
It is further claimed in the suit that the officer who responded did not punish her because of his fear of losing his job.
Additionally, the suit states that Crossno then asked Pardue at the meeting which officer responded and he answered with Officer Danny Emerson.
The lawsuit claims after Pardue stated Emerson’s name Crossno became very frustrated and asked Pardue to step outside to discuss this accusation.
According to the document, Crossno proceeded to assault Pardue in the parking lot and knocked him to the ground. He was also threatened with a taser.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Bruceton police chief charged with assault following altercation
Courtesy: Mobile Patrol
Pardue’s attorney Larry Crain says this is a serious issue.
“It is a serious matter when a private citizen’s right to speak out at a public hearing has been violated especially on matters that involve police corruption or abuse of power. This case raises a lot of serious issues,” said Crain.
Crain also says it is a big issue if law enforcement can’t enforce the law because of political power.
“If the law enforcement can’t evenly and fairly enforce the law then that’s a huge problem for us,” said Crain.
Crain says they have yet to have conformation whether the town of Bruceton and Crossno have been served with the lawsuit.
However, when they do receive the lawsuit the town and Crossno have approximately 30 days to make a response.
We have contacted the Town of Bruceton and they did not give a comment at this time. View the full lawsuit here.
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