New security measures that went into effect at the Bradley County Courthouse last week have already had a positive impact on building security, according to Capt. Eric Watson of the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office Judicial Services Division.

Watson said a small bag of marijuana and a razor blade, both hastily disposed of before reaching the security checkpoint, were found on the courthouse grounds and in a restroom. Visitors attending courts or having business to conduct with clerks of the courts on the second floor are required to complete a security check. This involves the individual and their belongings passing through the magnetometer, which uses the same principle as metal detectors in major airports.

Watson said the marijuana was outside in front of the building and the razor blade was wrapped in toilet paper and discarded in the women’s restroom.

"Another woman got to the magnetometer and realized she was carrying a handgun in her purse," Watson said. "She had a valid handgun carry permit which made it legal for her to have the weapon."

Watson said this shows that people have been bringing guns, knives, and all sorts of objects into courtrooms that can be used as weapons against court officers, judges, or anyone there as a litigant or witness.

As part of heightened security measures implemented by Sheriff Jim Ruth, doors to the second floor from the Ocoee Street ramp have been changed to exit only. To access the second floor you must enter on the first level and use the stairs or elevator.

People conducting business with offices on the first floor, including the County Trustee, County Court Clerk, Register of Deeds, and Veterans Affairs, will not be required to pass through the magnetometer.

Visitors should keep in mind to arrive early at the courthouse and the judicial center so they can be cleared through security and reach the courtroom at the designated time.

The Criminal Investigations Division of the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office has cleared several recent cases with the arrest of suspects.

Christopher Michael Burnette, age 27, is charged with violation of the Tennessee Computer Act, theft over $500, 10 counts of theft under $500 and 12 counts of forgery, The investigation revealed Burnette stole checks while he was living with a relative and cashed them in varying amounts totaling over $800. The checks were cashed in June, July and August of 2009 but were not reported to the BCSO until recently. In addition, unauthorized purchases were made on the relative’s E-Bay account in excess of $500.

In another investigation, the Crime Scene Unit assisted in the identification of a suspect in the theft of two flat screen TV’s and a DVD player from a residence on Goodwill Road. The case was cleared with the arrest of Matthew Brandon Moore, age 28, for aggravated burglary and theft over $1,000.

Also cleared is the theft of a farm tractor and attachments from a barn on Sipes Road. Coty Aaron Dilbeck, 20, was charged in the theft after being identified as a possible suspect and questioned by BCSO detectives. The owner of the farming equipment reported Dilbeck offered to purchase the tractor on several occasions but his offers were refused. Dilbeck is charged with theft over $1,000 and two counts of burglary.

According to Capt. Steve Lawson, last year the sheriff’s office cleared over 56% of the cases that were investigated.

Deputy Willie Espinoza hosted a gang awareness meeting Tuesday night at the Bradley County Sheriff's Office to educate local citizens about gangs that have a local presence.  Espinoza used photographs and documents to highlight his presentation and included photos that he has taken at various locations around the community.

Deputy Willie Espinoza and some attending his presentation

As a result of a search warrant executed last week at the residence of Jeff S. Henson on Peerless Road in Cleveland, Bradley County Sheriff’s deputies on Tuesday arrested Henson for the possession and distribution of child pornography.

The investigation was conducted jointly by the BCSO Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and the FBI’s Chattanooga Cyber Crimes Task Force. They were assisted by BCSO’s Drug Unit and Criminal Investigations Division.

Henson was taken into custody on warrants for sexual exploitation of a minor and aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor. Earlier this month he was arrested by the Cleveland Police Department for aggravated sexual battery and was released after posting bond. With these new charges Henson was ordered to be held without bond in the Bradley County jail pending further court proceedings in both cases.

At this time the investigation is continuing.

Jeff S. Henson