Sheriff's Past Missteps: A Look at the Legal Troubles

Key Figures:

• Chuck Wright, former sheriff
• Amos Durham, former chaplain
• Lawson Berry Watson, former employee

Charges and Allegations:

• Misuse of Funds:
• Wright and Durham admitted to taking money meant for official use for personal expenses, including supporting a drug habit.

• Wright misused funds meant for a trip honoring a fallen deputy, using them for himself.

• Pain Pills Incident:

• Wright obtained pain pills by claiming they would be destroyed but kept them for personal use.

• Drug-Related Transactions:

• Wright used a blank check to pay someone buying large amounts of drugs.

• Embezzlement:
• Watson was on the payroll for years without doing any work, costing nearly $200,000.

Legal Status:

• Plea Agreements:
• Wright has agreed to plead guilty to three charges.

• Durham and Watson have also agreed to plead guilty to their respective charges.

• Potential Sentences:
• If convicted, they could face years in prison, heavy fines, and restitution.
• They could still change their minds before the court appearance.

Ongoing Investigations:

• Wright and Durham are being investigated for other issues, including Wright's drug habit and personal use of a county-funded credit card.
• The investigation started after reports about Wright's spending were published.