Mayor of Chattanooga comments on Chief Murphy investigation

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly spoke briefly about an ongoing TBI investigation into Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy.

Earlier this month, both Chattanooga police and the TBI confirmed the investigation but did not go into details.

Mayor Kelly said that while his office is not directly involved in the investigation, he does not plan to suspend her for the duration of the investigation, despite requests from the Fraternal Order of Police to do so.

“Our dealings with Chief Murphy are consistent with our employee information guide and department policies,” said Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly. “So we’re comfortable with where things are at right now. In the meantime, she’s not involved in any disciplinary proceedings. So if I’m going to pay someone to do a job, I want them to be on the job.”

CPD said an internal investigation unrelated to the TBI probe has been put on hold while the state continues its investigation.