(QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- The Charlotte mayor and city council held a news conference Wednesday addressing an explosive claim from At-Large Council Member Victoria Watlington.
Watlington sent a message to her supporters this week, accusing the council of being “immoral and corrupt.” This accusation comes just days after a closed-door meeting that’s now at the center of multiple controversies.
At the heart of the issue is an alleged settlement involving Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings and the City Council. According to circulating reports, the settlement aimed to avoid a potential lawsuit from Jennings over threatening text messages he received from former Council Member Tariq Bokhari.
City Council members aren’t confirming or denying whether that settlement actually happened -- and legally, they say they can’t.
The vote, they explain, happened during a “closed session,” a confidential meeting allowed under North Carolina law for sensitive topics like personnel matters. But now, council members are just as concerned about how the details of that secret session got out in the first place.
“Words said in closed session need to stay in closed session,” one council member said. “This is not the first time we’ve had a leak.”
The Council says it’s investigating the leak and looking into who might have shared confidential personnel information. At the same time, they insist that if Watlington has any real evidence of corruption or illegal activity, she should bring it to the City Attorney, and they’ll take it seriously.
“These are serious allegations that can damage the reputation of this organization,” one official stated. “If there’s proof, we’re obligated to investigate. But right now, no such claims have been made to the city attorney.”
Mayor Vi Lyles emphasized the importance of facts and ethics in public service. “We all took an oath of office, and that means something. I would never embarrass or harm what I consider to be the greatest city in this country.”
She added support for Chief Jennings, saying he’s been “publicly attacked” and deserves an apology. "He’s one of the best police chiefs in the nation. He’s dedicated more than 30 years to serving this community."
Council Members James Mitchell and LaWana Mayfield, who were absent due to illness, issued a joint statement backing their colleagues. “We stand with our fellow council members and share their commitment to respectful and honest work,” the statement read.
So far, no official complaint or evidence has been filed by Watlington with the city attorney, something the council says is a crucial step if her claims are to be taken further.
This is a Developing Story. Check back for updates
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