76 Year Old Veteran Arrested for Asking Public Official to Speak Louder

CNN iReport
Jul. 22, 2014

Eddie Overholt, a 76 year old veteran was arrested in Greeneville, TN Friday, July 18, 2014 for asking Mayor Alan Broyles and board members to speak louder during an Industrial Development Board meeting at Greeneville Light and Power. The Mayor and board were speaking in extremely low voices during the discussion of an unpopular decision to submit a second application to TDOT (the first was denied) that would allow a private company, US Nitrogen, to install and run wastewater pipes to the Nolichucky River so they would be able to get free water and a free place to dump wastewater instead of signing an agreement with the local water utility which would help the community.

Mayor Broyles and the board are already facing a lawsuit from citizens for violating the Open Meetings Law. No microphones were used, though clearly available in the room and at least 4 members of the board were sitting with backs to the public viewing area.

When Mr. Overholt asked them to please speak up the Mayor ordered his removal and subsequent arrest. He was forced to walk to the jail despite having health problems and was also charged for resisting arrest when he needed to rest.

Citizens are outraged and calling for justice for this veteran.

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