Chattanooga Police Chief Faces Multiple Charges

Former Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy faces multiple criminal charges, including illegal voter registration, false entries, forgery, perjury, and official misconduct, following a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) probe into her residency claims. The investigation revealed Murphy provided false information on government documents to establish residency in Chattanooga while also claiming a primary residence in Georgia, violating Chattanooga's residency requirements. Appointed by Mayor Tim Kelly in 2022, Murphy resigned on June 26, 2024, amidst the ongoing investigation. She surrendered to TBI agents and was released on a $19,000 bond. Executive Chief Harry Sommers will serve as interim police chief. The charges are accusations, and Murphy is presumed innocent until proven guilty.