In a heated Knox County Commission meeting, Commissioner Lundy addressed the recent incident involving the Knox County Sheriff's Office and a 15-year-old employee, Anaya Thompson, at McAlister's Deli. Lundy expressed deep frustration over the lack of accountability and communication from law enforcement regarding Thompson's termination, which she believes is linked to her brother's controversial death at the hands of police two years prior.
Lundy recounted her attempts to engage Sheriff Spangler, who declined to attend the meeting or provide a public explanation, instead offering a private meeting. She criticized the sheriff's office for not showing up to address the community's concerns, suggesting that their absence reflects a broader issue of systemic racism and insensitivity towards the black community.
The discussion highlighted the emotional toll on Thompson, who lost her job after allegedly denying service to officers, a situation that Lundy described as reminiscent of racial injustices from the 1960s. Lundy emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, proposing to subpoena the officers involved and other relevant parties to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events.
Commissioner Lee countered Lundy's assertions, arguing that the incident should not be framed as a racial issue, asserting that Thompson was free to choose her employment and that the restaurant's policies were within their rights. This sparked further debate among commissioners, with some supporting Lundy's call for accountability while others cautioned against inflaming community tensions.
The meeting underscored the ongoing struggle for racial equity and justice within Knox County, as Lundy vowed to continue advocating for Thompson and others affected by similar circumstances. The incident has gained significant attention on social media, reflecting a community grappling with its past and present relations with law enforcement.