Heated exchanges at Pendergrass meeting

PENDERGRASS - People in Pendergrass used a town council meeting last night to vent their frustrations over the turmoil inside city hall.

Much of their anger was directed toward Rob Russell who was recently fired as police chief but remains as city manager.

But Russell had his supporters at the meeting, and some lashed-out at his opponents.

In July, two whistle blowers produced details about mis-spending and ticket-fixing by Russell. The GBI is set to investigate possible criminal acts by the former chief and the city.

Mayor Melvin Tolbert tells Fox 5 those allegations baseless.

A week ago, the city began a public seach for a new police chief.