Fiscal Court Discusses Carter, Takes No Action

McCracken County Fiscal Court met Monday night at the McCracken County Courthouse, and spent more than an hour discussing Emergency Management Director Paul Carter.

Commissioners met in executive session while Carter waited with co-workers, and he was called into the meeting some time later. Eventually, everyone emerged, and County Judge-Executive Van Newberry told the Paducah Sun they took no disciplinary action regarding Carter, who will remain on paid leave.

County Attorney Mike Murphy said last week that his investigation would be completed by Monday, but would not give any information when called prior to the meeting. He indicated that there would probably be 'more information' by Tuesday.

Murphy interviewed everyone who witnessed the incident or was on the scene at a crash July 27 when Carter and an employee confronted tow truck driver Anthony Hess about a jacket he had while previously employed by the county. Hess told Paducah Police Carter threatened and choked him before he broke free and yelled for help. Carter initially told police nothing happened, but admitted the confrontation got physical after he learned there was dashboard camera video. He claims Hess initiated contact, and he held him back by placing a hand on his chest.