2 Troublesome Investigation Reports, 2 Separate Agencies, 1 Year, 1 County

In 2025 alone, the State of Tennessee Comptroller’s Office released two investigation reports pertaining to two separate emergency service agencies servicing Campbell County. Both the Stoney Fork Volunteer Fire Department and the Jellico Rescue Squad have gained scrutiny for various deficiencies and violations. Common issues include mismanagement of funds and lack of appropriate accountability when managing funds. For one organization, more serious findings include a lack of a board of directors to comply with the law, misappropriation of funds, and a case of nepotism.

An investigative report dated for Nov. 7, 2025 for the Stoney Fork Volunteer Fire Department found

1. The organization is governed by a husband and wife duo while lacking a board of directors required by law
2. The husband is the fire chief; the wife is the treasurer
3. The organization receives funds from the Campbell County government
4. The fire chief made personal purchases with the organization funds
5. Questionable purchases were made totaling to at least $2,389
6. The supposed few members of the organization did not meet regularly
7. Vehicle and fuel use deficiencies were identified

You can find the investigation report for the Stoney Fork Volunteer Fire Department here.

Another investigation report dated Feb. 28, 2025 for Jellico Rescue Squad found

1. The organization made questionable spending disbursements totaling to nearly $18,000
2. Officers failed to properly oversee operations, resulting in deficiencies
3. Officers failed to adequately delegate duties and responsibilities

You can find the investigation report for Jellico Rescue Squad here.

In a recent video published by the Lafollette Press, both Representative Dennis Powers and Senator Ken Yager are seen presenting grants to the Jellico Rescue Squad. You can find the video here:

A third Campbell County emergency response agency with ongoing allegations is the White Oak Volunteer Fire Department. Allegations of nepotism, lack of transparency, lack of proper scene safety, lack of adequate training, leadership corrosion, and potential misappropriation of funds have surfaced. An investigation by the Comptroller’s Office has been requested, and we are awaiting the release of the findings, if and when this occurs.

I have reached out to Representative Dennis Power’s office who represents Campbell County to explain the public safety concerns in Campbell County. The staff member requested that I generate a report to present. Please stay tuned for updates.