In a sudden move that has left the Jonesboro community speculating, Mayor Donya Sartor has terminated Police Chief Tommy Henderson from his duties, effectively immediately. This information was confirmed through a letter sent by Sartor to the now-former chief. "Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and the City wishes you the best in future endeavors," she penned in the termination letter, also instructing Henderson to return all city property, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta.
Henderson, who took the helm of the Jonesboro Police Department, found himself at the center of headlines recently when he announced refunds for over 1,200 incorrect traffic citations due to faulty speed cameras — an issue uncovered by the same FOX 5 Atlanta.
The mayor broke the news of the firing to 11Alive on Friday evening, expressing her intent to have Lt. Chris Cato step in as the interim chief, pending city council approval. Yet, she provided no concrete rationale, stating simply that she "feels this is the best way to move the city forward," according to an 11Alive report.
When asked for a comment on his abrupt termination, Henderson said, "It was an honor and privilege to serve the city," declining to elaborate any further. As for Mayor Sartor, she abruptly ended an inquiry into her reasoning for the dismissal with a curt "I can't," before hanging up on a reporter. The mayor's actions have sparked curiosity and concern, as the community awaits further clarification on what's prompted such a decisive and mysterious change in its law enforcement leadership, as per FOX 5 Atlanta.
