Judge Revokes Bond, Sheriff Arnold Headed to Jail

NASHVILLE, TN — Embattled Rutherford County Sheriff Robert Arnold is headed to jail after a federal judge revoked his $250,000 bond Wednesday morning.

U.S. Magistrate Alistair Newbern revoked Arnold's $250,000 bond in the JailCigs case, saying probable cause exists Arnold was involved in a domestic assault and witness tampering.

The magistrate said she would consider letting him out of jail before he is due in court February 7 on the conspiracy case if he agrees to resign as sheriff.

Arnold's chief deputy Randy Garrett will lead the sheriff's office while Arnold is behind bars, county mayor Ernest Burgess told the Daily News Journal. Arnold will, however, continue to receive his salary unless he is convicted or resigns, according to the mayor.

Federal prosecutors asked for the bond revocation. Initially, pre-trial services officials had simply sought an order that Arnold attend alcohol abuse and anger management classes and be prohibited from having alcohol or a firearm. Those officials changed their stance during Tuesday's hearing, agreeing with the prosecution Arnold should be jailed.

Image via Rutherford County Sheriff's Department.