keener resigns in midst of investigation

Sevier County Clerk Joe Keener resigned his position on Monday as the state audit of his office continues.
This latest development comes after Keener told Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters of his intent to take an unpaid leave of absence last Thursday.
His resignation comes less than a month after the fifth time he had been reelected to the office on Aug. 5.
Speculation about Keener’s position arose last Monday as an investigative audit of his books at the Sevier County Courthouse began.
The current investigation into the records was sparked by a routine audit by the state in July when an abnormality in records caught the attention of auditors.  
What the abnormality was or any further details have not been disclosed by auditors at this time.
Keener’s resignation came in the form of a letter to Waters.
The Herald obtained Keener’s letter from his lawyer, Wade Davies, with the Law Offices of Ritchie, Dillard & Davies, P.C. in Knoxville.
In the resignation letter to Waters, Keener said he believed it was appropriate for him to step down at this time and that he did not want his personal situation to interfere with the office’s work for the county.
“I want to apologize to the people of Sevier County,” Keener’s letter read. “For 18 years they have placed their trust in me. This was an honor for which I was continuously humbled and deeply grateful. That I did not live up to their expectations is a source of heartache for me and my family
“I cannot adequately explain it; however, I can apologize and take immediate steps to do the right things, which are to resign and ensure all funds are accounted for and properly deposited.”
Keener also apologized to the members of the Sevier County Commission and thanked Sevier County residents for allowing him to serve since 1992.
He cited the accomplishments of the Clerk’s Office since 1992 as opening a Gatlinburg satellite office; instituting online tag renewals, online marriage pre-applications, one-day title service, online notary applications and ten hour days at the office.
In the letter Keener referenced the audit raising questions about the handling of certain receipts.
“I have acknowledged the situation and have now done everything in my ability to ensure that all funds are accounted for and properly deposited,” the letter read. “Now that I have accomplished this, I can resign knowing the office is in good hands.”
Deputy Clerk Karen Cotter has been handling the operations of the Sevier County Clerk’s Office.
It was unclear as of press time about what actions, if any, will be taken by the Attorney General’s Office.