In what is turning out to be a very bizarre chain of events, local media is reporting that interim City Manager Steve Hill has offered the full-time job of Crossville Police Chief to former Chief Dave Beaty.  Two years ago, Beaty took a retirement buy-out from the City and retired from the position after serving as Crossville Police Chief for 19 years. Rodney Shoap was then hired as interim Police Chief.  During Shoaps reign as Chief, he expressed his wish to become the full-time Chief.  However, due to apparent turmoil between Council Member Jesse Kerley and Shoap, there was never an offer made to Shoap. Other Council Members were in favor of Shoap being hired as full time Chief.  However, the City Council has no authority in the hiring of City employee’s – that is strictly left up to the City Manager.   Shoap alleged that Kerley was advising interim City Manager Steve Hill against hiring Shoap full-time. Eventually Shoap resigned as interim Police Chief due to what he felt was political strife within the City.  Detective Mark Rosser was named the new interim Police Chief.  Now, according to reports, interim City Manager Steve Hill has offered the position of full-time Chief of Police to former, retired Chief Dave Beaty.  According to the reports, there was a recent interview session of only three applicants for Police Chief – current interim Chief Mark Rosser, Rockwood Police Chief Danny Wright and former Crossville Chief Dave Beaty.

As mentioned earlier, Beaty took a retirement buy-out from the City receiving almost $35,000 lump sum and continued insurance coverage until he reaches eligibility for Medicare.  Questions now arise if Beaty accepts the position, does he get to keep the $35,000 buy-out or have to return it.  The buy-out amounted to a half years salary at the time it was given.