A city council meeting in a south metro Atlanta city turned ugly after one councilman claimed his fellow colleague belly bumped him and things escalated. Now, that councilman has filed a police report and is pursing charges.
The argument happened at the end of a Nov. 12 council meeting around 9:30 p.m.
According to the police report, the counsel began discussing personnel issues, reportedly regarding Blount’s alleged use of taxpayer money to pay for a trip. Councilman Elton Alexander told police he stood up and “didn’t have time for this” and left the room. But as he walked out, Alexander told police Councilman J. Blount directed comments toward him. They went ignored.
After the meeting ended, Alexander went back to his seat to get his jacket and umbrella, but as he turned around, Blount was standing directly in front of him.
Alexander told police Blount bumped him in the stomach and threatened him, saying things like, “I had enough of you,” the report states. “I am going to handle it like a man and take care of you right now.” Alexander shot back, “I am not afraid.”
Blount then reportedly got closer to Alexander’s face, nose almost touching, stating, “I will take you out. You don’t know who you are dealing with.”
Alexander said Blount continued to make threats, even following him to the elevator.
11Alive's Ashley Johnson spoke with Alexander, who said he filed a police report because this is not the first time Blount has allegedly behaved this way toward him.
Blount refused to speak to 11Alive on camera but said in a statement:
“This is yet another attack on my character by councilman Elton Alexander. I am innocent of these allegations and I am confident that I will be cleared after a full investigation conducted by the Henry County Police Department.”
The Stockbridge City Manager told 11Alive they are doing everything to move forward and to be “progressive.”
Meanwhile, Alexander said he wanted to see terrorist threat charges filed, in addition to the simple battery charges that Blount could face.
The next time the two have a scheduled council meeting is Dec. 10.