Former Sheriff's Deputy Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud Charges

NASHVILLE, TN — Joining his former boss, former Rutherford County sheriff's administration chief Joe Russell pleaded guilty to three federal charges Friday, avoiding a trial scheduled for February.

As Arnold did Wednesday, Russell pleaded guilty to wire fraud, honest services fraud and extortion. Each charge carries up to 20 years in federal prison, though U.S. District Court Judge Kevin Sharp reminded Russell that his sentence could be "more harsh or less harsh" than the sentencing guidelines.

The terms of Russell's plea agreement were sealed.

Russell and Arnold, along with Arnold's uncle John Vanderveer were indicted in May by a federal grand jury on charges of illegally profiting through JailCigs, a company which sold e-cigarette paraphernalia to inmates at the county jail. According to federal prosecutors, JailCigs generated $156,975 at the county jail. None of that money was shared with the county government, as Arnold pocketed money to fund his re-election campaign.

There has been no indication Vanderveer intends to join his co-defendants in pleading guilty. Arnold's sentencing is scheduled for May 8 and Russell's for May 19.

Image via Rutherford County Sheriff's Department