Violence Warning Issued Ahead of Chickamauga Removal Hearing

CHICKAMAUGA, Ga. (WDEF) – As we continue to follow the proceedings of the possible removal of Mayor James “Trey” Deck III, we have several updates to provide.

UPDATE:

News 12 reached out to the City Manager Micheal Haney, asking for a statement on the claims made in Mayor Deck’s official statement that was released over the weekend.

In return, we received an identical copy of the statement and was provided the identical statement from the City of Chickamauga social media.

“We are sharing a statement on behalf of the City of Chickamauga attached to this email.”

– City of Chickamauga

See Below.

City of Chickamauga Statement

UPDATE:

Ahead of the meeting on February 9 at 6 p.m., Mayor Deck has issued a violence warning.

“Earlier today, the Office of Mayor Deck became aware of information indicating a potential threat of violence associated with the upcoming city council meeting later this afternoon. The law firm of Penland, Romans & Rayburn, GP received a phone call from an individual early on Monday who disclosed a threat to harm the mayor and the attorneys representing the mayor during tonight’s City Council meeting.

The threat was immediately reported to law enforcement, and counsel for all parties associated with this afternoon’s meeting were immediately notified. The safety of our residents, elected officials, city employees, and first responders is our highest priority. Upon learning this information, my representatives immediately coordinated with local and regional law enforcement agencies. Given the seriousness of this matter, members of the public are strongly encouraged to evaluate whether in person attendance in necessary should the city council elect to move forward with the proceedings this evening. Those who choose to attend should expect heightened security procedures, limited access areas, and potential delays. Any suspicious activities should be reported immediately to law enforcement. The situation is being actively monitored and additional actions will be taken if warranted. The City will provide updates
as appropriate. We appreciate the cooperation of the public as we take steps to ensure safety and maintain order while continuing the work of local government.”

– Trey Deck

PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICKAMAUGA TREY
DECK

PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICKAMAUGA TREY
DECK

CHICKAMAUGA, Ga. (WDEF) – Mayor James “Trey” Deck III has released an official statement about the ongoing proceedings to remove him from office.

Mayor Deck claims he recently obtained evidence saying,

“This evidence provides, without a doubt, that the City Manager and at least one City Counsil member have considered the evidence without hearing the Mayor’s defense to the charges weeks before this hearing was set.”

– Mayor Deck

You can read the full statement below.

“Chickamauga City Council members are deeply committed to this community and to the responsibility entrusted to them by its residents. We take any concerns involving the conduct of elected officials very seriously. In accordance with the City’s charter and Georgia law, the Chickamauga City Council has initiated a formal
public hearing process to review concerns raised about the Mayor.

This process exists to ensure a fair and transparent hearing. The public hearing has been rescheduled for Monday, February 9th at 6pm at the Chickamauga Civic Center. Overflow seating will be available outdoors, where a live broadcast of the hearing will be provided. The hearing also will be broadcast live on UCTV. We encourage the public to attend in-person or virtually to hear the information presented. We understand some residents have concerns over the limited information shared publicly at this time. Because this matter is part of a formal proceeding, the City Council is unable to discuss or share specific allegations or evidence prior to the public hearing. At the hearing, residents will have the opportunity to hear the information presented and understand how the concerns are being reviewed through the City’s established process. The Chickamauga City Council cares greatly about the city of Chickamauga and its future. We remain focused on upholding the integrity of city government while continuing daily operations and serving the residents of Chickamauga.”

– A STATEMENT FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICKAMAUGA TREY DECK

A STATEMENT FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICKAMAUGA TREY DECK

A STATEMENT FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICKAMAUGA TREY DECK