Knox County Merit System for Sheriffs Employees Board Member John Valliant, III has filed a lawsuit against Knox County. In the suit the primary target is at Large Commissioner #10 for the reconstituted Merit System Board for Sheriffs Employees.

Count One Claim Two-Violation of Article I, Section 8 of the Tennessee Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (Vagueness)

Count II Violation of Article I, Section 23 of the Tennessee Constitution and the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (Political Speech and association)

Count III Violation of Article I, Section 25 of the Tennessee Constitution and the First Amendment of the U. S Constitution (Political Speech and association).

Count IV Violation of Article I, Section 8 and Article XI, Section 8 of the Tennessee Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (Equal Protection)

The lawsuit asks the court to enjoining the enforcement of the Ordinance, Enter an order requiring the repeal of the Ordinance named. Award costs, expenses and reasonable attorney’s fee according to 42 U.S.C. 1988, Tenn. Code Ann 29-14-111 and any other applicable laws. Award any other relief as is appropriate under the circumstances.

the suit was submitted 16th day of May 2024.