Washington County Commissioner Accused of Threatening Resident After Meeting

Altercation occurred after public comments against rezoning resolution

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A Jonesborough man has filed a police report against Washington County Commissioner Richard Tucker following an altercation after a recent Washington County Commission meeting. Kevin Hendricks, who spoke against a rezoning resolution during the public comment period, said he felt "threatened" by Tucker after the meeting concluded.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about the conduct of elected officials and the ability of residents to freely participate in local government meetings without fear of retaliation or intimidation.

The details

According to the police report, after the meeting ended, Hendricks and Tucker were engaged in a conversation when Tucker told a deputy to "get this guy out of my face." Tucker then allegedly stated out loud that he was "going to get" Hendricks one day. The two men also had a brief encounter in the parking lot, where Tucker allegedly told a deputy to escort Hendricks out. Video footage of the incidents was provided to authorities.

  • The incident occurred after the Washington County Commission meeting on February 16, 2026.
  • Hendricks filed the police report against Tucker last week.

The players

Richard Tucker

A Washington County Commissioner who is currently running for re-election in District One.

Kevin Hendricks

A Jonesborough resident who spoke against a rezoning resolution during the public comment period of the Washington County Commission meeting.

WSCO Deputy Otten

The Courthouse security officer in courtroom seven at the George P. Jaynes Justice Center who witnessed the incident between Hendricks and Tucker.

WSCO Deputy Wells

The deputy who took a second incident report, which included statements from three witnesses who heard Tucker threaten Hendricks.

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What they’re saying

“He clearly was agitated by my public comments urging the commission not to move the meeting, so I believe that's what precipitated it.”

— Kevin Hendricks (Johnson City Press)

“you better get this guy out of my face.”

— Richard Tucker, Washington County Commissioner (Incident Report)

“one of the days I'm going to get you.”

— Richard Tucker, Washington County Commissioner (Incident Report)

What’s next

The Washington County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident, and any charges stemming from it would likely be misdemeanors.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for elected officials to maintain professional conduct and respect the rights of residents to participate in local government meetings without fear of retaliation. It raises concerns about the ability of the public to freely engage with their representatives without intimidation.