Alabama sheriff faces impeachment in corruption probe

Alabama’s Attorney General has started impeachment proceedings against a sheriff accused of corruption and neglect of duty.

Sheriff Tyrone Clark Sr. is accused of helping an inmate with an extensive history of drug offenses to bring contraband into the Sumter County jail. Other allegations include taking pay from inmates in an unauthorized work-release program and trying to coerce a female employee into sex.

A grand jury recommended removing Clark from office in April and sent the case to Attorney General Luther Strange, who announced Thursday that the Alabama Supreme Court will decide Clark’s fate.

Any criminal charges would be considered separately; District Attorney Greg Griggers says an investigation continues.

Clark has not returned phone calls or emails, and it’s unclear if he has an attorney.

Republished with permission of The Associated Press.